By Trendsetter Tribune 
Finance officials have unveiled a draft multi-year budget that delivers only minor increases for key public services — while warning ministers that difficult cuts are unavoidable.
Although overall spending will rise, the increase next year is just 0.8% in cash terms, far below historical levels. Only four departments — health, education, justice, and infrastructure — would see modest uplifts.
Finance Minister John O’Dowd said it was “simply not possible” to give departments the funding they requested, stressing that the priority must be stabilizing services within tight limits.
Key proposed allocations (resource + capital)
- Health: £25.9bn / £1.3bn
- Education: £9.9bn / £1.2bn
- Infrastructure: £2bn / £4bn
- Justice: £4.6bn / £470m
- Communities: £2.8bn / £1.3bn
- Economy: £2.5bn / £1bn
- DAERA: £2bn / £500m
The plan also earmarks funding for hospital waiting lists, special education needs facilities, social housing, and major sports infrastructure — including Casement Park — though inflation pressures remain a major concern.
Health leaders warn that despite receiving the largest share of funding, the department may still struggle to secure pay parity and avoid strikes, with increases staying below inflation in the short term.
The draft now enters an eight-week public consultation before ministers vote on a final version.
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