The much anticipated so called "An Bord Snip Nua report" has been published today and proposes the most extensive cuts in government expenditure ever announced. The body was chaired by UCD Economist Colm McArthy. The cuts are far ranging and impact on most or all of government spending including the provision of health care, education, the environment, justice and Social &Family affairs. In total it proposes a saving of €.3 billion and cutting public jobs by 17,300.

Reaction is likely to wide spread and the political backlash can be anticipated. Full coverage of the report can be got from www.gov.ie.