IMF warns government that cost of living supports should not be given to whole population

Visiting officials say moves must be ‘targeted’ at vulnerable to prevent inflation rate going beyond 6% this year

The IMF team met with Paschal Donohoe, pictured, the Minister of Finance, Michael McGrath, the Minister of Public Expenditure, as well as trade union and business leaders. Picture: Rollingnews.ie

The International Monetary Fund has warned the government that any further moves to tackle the cost of living crisis must be “targeted” at vulnerable groups rather than given to the whole population.

Its officials are concerned that further government actions – on top of cuts to fuel excise duties, cuts to Vat on electricity bills and a €200 electricity rebate – could increase the inflation rate beyond 6 per cent this year.

The IMF is ...