The Minister for Public Expenditure has rejected the accusation that the government is ignoring the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council.
Jack Chambers says the government is going to moderate spending in the medium term, but says infrastructure spending is important, noting the significance of this week's National Development Plan.
He gave assurances the government is paying attention to the budget watchdog's concerns regarding state spending:
Minister Chambers also said the government is committed to prioritising the regeneration of town centres.
He confirmed that funding is there to revitalise urban centres and small towns: