The Taoiseach says Budget 2014 contains "tough decisions" but aims to regain our economic sovereignty. Enda Kenny was speaking on his way into Government Buildings this morning.
The Finance Minister Michael Noonan will deliver his budget speech at 2:30pm this afternoon, ahead of the speech by Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin a short time later.
It has already been confirmed that free GP care will be provided to under-5s. It is understood this will be paid for through a tightening up on the thresholds for medical cards for pensioners.
It is also speculated that the telephone allowance for elderly people will be scrapped and that prescription charges will be hiked.
The Taoiseach says the Budget has been framed with a number of things in mind.
While the Finance Minister Michael Noonan says the budget today will contain €3 billion savings and will be a tough one.
New changes to dole payments will commence from January. It will be €100 from 18 to 24 years of age. Upon turning 25, the person will get a higher rate of €144 for 12 months before receiving a €188 rate when they turn 26 years of age.
Nobody who is within the relevant age categories and already in receipt of a higher rate will see their payment reduced.
The government also agreed not to cut child benefit, and to protect the the pupil teacher ratio. Minister Howlin says the government is making "difficult decisions" in a fair and balanced way.
