Autumn Budget doesn’t go far enough to invest in public services and boost growth – O’Dowd

Minister O'Dowd Comments on Autumn Budget

Minister O'Dowd stated:

“Ahead of the Chancellor's Budget, I have consistently called on Westminster to support families, workers, and small businesses by investing in key public services and stimulating economic growth. Unfortunately, the measures announced today fall short of what is required.”

Call for Greater Investment

O'Dowd criticized the Autumn Budget for failing to provide sufficient funding to sustain essential public services. He argued that stronger investment is vital to ease financial pressures on households, improve public infrastructure, and drive sustainable regional growth.

He emphasized that meaningful reform and targeted spending could uplift local economies, create jobs, and help communities recover from ongoing financial challenges.

Focus on Economic Growth and Social Equity

“Communities across the region need not just short-term relief but long-term commitments from government to strengthen health, education, and local services,” O'Dowd added.

He concluded that Northern Ireland requires a fairer economic strategy from Westminster—one that prioritizes equality, growth, and stability over austerity.

Author summary: O'Dowd criticized the Autumn Budget as insufficient, urging Westminster to increase investment in public services and adopt fairer, long-term measures to drive growth.

more

Department of Finance Department of Finance — 2025-11-26

More News