Less spent here on pensions & health

IRELAND'S young population means the State is spending less on pensions and healthcare than other European countries, according to the budgetary watchdog.

- BY GRAINNE NI AODHA

As a result, the State needs to prepare for a growth in spending as demographics shift and the demand for public services increase.

Analysis by the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council (IFAC) found that while Ireland appeared to be a low-tax, low-spend country, public spending is low relative to national income.

The fiscal advisory body said this was mainly due to Ireland's young population and a buoyant economy.