Govt may introduce tax break for childminders

Minister for Finance and Tánaiste Simon Harris has said the Government may introduce a tax break for childminders in next month's Budget.

Speaking at the end of an informal gathering of EU Finance Ministers at Dublin Castle , Mr Harris confirmed he was considering the measure as the Coalition moves to finalise the specifics of Budget 2027 due to be announced on Tuesday fortnight.

Senior Coalition figures have also indicated that a signalled reduction in the cost of home heating oil for householders will not be derived from a VAT cut despite the fuel industry advocating such a move.

Mr Harris also reiterated his opposition to the abolition of stamp duty for first time buyers after the Taoiseach Micheál Martin last week said he had a "favourable disposition" towards the idea.

Fianna Fáil Cork South Central TD Séamus McGrath has also pushed the move in recent weeks.