Tánaiste Simon Harris Rejects Labour Claims of Service Cuts Due to Education Levy
Tánaiste Simon Harris dismissed Labour claims that a levy on departments to cover a €646 million education overrun would cut services. He called it prudent management, noting the levy's small percentage. Separately, Harris addressed concerns about data centres driving up electricity costs, while also highlighting their economic contribution.
Tánaiste Simon Harris has rejected Labour Party claims that services will be cut due to a levy on Government departments to cover a €646 million overrun in the Department of Education. Departments may need to reduce expected spending in 2027 by 0.1% to 1.4%.
Labour finance spokesperson Ged Nash questioned which services would be cut, calling the levy an effective budget cut. Harris countered that it represents «prudent good management of the public purse» and that the levy ranges from 0.02% to 1.4% within budgets of €118 billion this year and €125 billion next year.
Separately, Aontú TD Paul Lawless stated that data centres, which used 22% of the State's electricity in 2024 and pay about 50% less than ordinary consumers, are driving up electricity costs. He cited a Friends of the Earth report predicting €1.4 billion added to bills and urged regulation, noting over 300,000 people are in energy arrears.
Harris acknowledged the issue, mentioning expanded fuel allowance and excise tax cuts, and stressed accelerating renewables. He also highlighted that data centres contribute €100 billion to the economy and support 875,000 jobs.