Budget 2015 marked the first time since the start of the economic collapse in 2008 when there were social welfare increases and tax cuts.

The Government began reversing some of the austerity measures that were introduced over the past six years with extra spending and tax cuts worth just over €1bn.

The Christmas bonus for social welfare recipients will be partially restored this year.

The euro zone’s 130 most important banks are set to find out on Oct. 26 how they have fared in the ECB’s landmark review, which is designed to banish lingering doubts about whether lenders value assets properly and are strong enough to withstand another recession.

Linklaters said the euro zone banks have raised €35bn ahead of the review, a figure that could rise to nearly €50bn by the end of …

A two-pronged approach agreed by senior ministers will see the introduction of new tax relief measures and financial subsidies in tomorrow’s Budget, the Irish Independent can reveal.

The Coalition plans to provide relief through both the tax and social welfare systems in a move that is intended to cover every household in the country.

The proposals, which were signed off by the government’s Economic Management Council (EMC), will see householders …

The Insolvency Service (ISI) of Ireland has applied to a special committee that regulates how the courts operate to have the fees reduced.

It currently costs a consumer €920 to go through the process of bankruptcy – now the intention is to reduce this to around €400.

Last week, ISI said it was cutting the fees for applying for state-approved insolvency deals in a bid to kick-start the new process …

Jobs Minister Richard Bruton’s proposals aim to create an extra 93,000 jobs in start-up companies over the next five years.

The entrepreneurship plan will include distinct measures to promote female entrepreneurship, including:

l promotion of female role models;