The Sinn Féin President says this morning’s Budget leaks point to a return of ‘auction politics’.

Speaking ahead of Michael Noonan’s Budget speech, Gerry Adams says he is not impressed with what he has heard so far.

We have argued strongly that this government is engaged in the old auction politics. We put forward alternative budget proposals which actually show in a costed way that we can invest in people, invest in the economy but particularly invest in the very very necessary public services

Michael Noonan’s Budget has been one of the most leaked in memory, with all signs pointing towards the net result of more cash in the pockets of many, with the Universal Social Charge being cut, the minimum wage hiked and old age pensions increased, as well as a range of other measures such as more teachers and gardaí and a restoration of some of the Christmas welfare bonus.

There have however been reports that Environment Minister Alan Kelly and Mr Noonan could not reach an agreement on rent certainty. Mr Kelly has long promise there would be measures to tackle two major crises facing the country now – rising rents and the homeless crisis. Reports today suggest Mr Kelly “lost” the argument with the Finance Minister, but he today told reports rent measures will be introduced in the coming weeks.