Taoiseach discusses plans for budget, housing and cost-of-living support with media

The transcript discusses a political program focusing on cost of living, housing, rural investment, community safety, and children's welfare. It addresses financial distress due to rising mortgage interest rates and the need for targeted support. The tourism and hospitality industry is reviewed, with a shift in tax priorities towards energy costs. Rising petrol and diesel prices are a concern, with monitoring planned until budget day. Engagement with the IFA and agricultural changes are highlighted, emphasizing the need for a new partnership. The housing crisis is addressed, with a focus on increasing housing supply through budget measures.

What is one of the key focuses of the government's political projects for the year ahead?

• Reducing taxes for large corporations

• Increasing the number of homeowners

• Expanding the military budget

• Privatizing public transportation

Who is primarily responsible for working on the details of mortgage interest relief?

• Minister for Education

• Minister McGrath

• Minister for Transport

• Minister for Health

Why was the 9% tax rate for tourism and hospitality reintroduced during the pandemic?

• To discourage international travel

• To support the industry when hotels and restaurants were half empty

• To increase government revenue

• To promote local tourism

What is one of the main reasons for the changes happening in agriculture globally?

• Advancements in technology

• Increased demand for luxury goods

• Reduction in global population

• Climate change and biodiversity loss

What is the government's stance on the current dialogue with farmers?

• It is effective and needs no change

• It needs to change to better manage industry changes

• It should focus more on subsidies

• It should be more confrontational

What is required to address the housing crisis according to the government?

• A single comprehensive budget

• A major increase in housing supply

• Reducing immigration

• Increasing property taxes

What is the expected outcome for housing construction this year?

• Falling short of the target

• Meeting the target of 20,000 new homes

• No new homes being built

• Exceeding the target with over 30,000 new homes