Significant financial gap remains – O’Dowd

Date published: 28 October 2026

Commenting on the Autumn Budget, Minister O’Dowd said: “Today’s Budget will be of cold comfort to workers and families facing cost of living pressures and does not deliver for public services. 

“People here pay their taxes and rightly want access to good quality public services. At a time of increased demand on public services, soaring fuel costs and rising inflation, the Chancellor has provided £131 million for this year in day-to-day funding, which is far short of what is needed.”

The Autumn Budget will see a reduction in capital funding over the next four years. Commenting on this, Minister O’Dowd added: “Westminster’s decision to reduce our capital funding by £117 million is a major blow at a time when additional investment in areas such as critical infrastructure and social housing is urgently needed.”

Addressing ongoing negotiations on the Executive’s budget Minister O’Dowd said: “The financial package currently on the table from the Westminster Government leaves a significant gap. I want to deliver pay awards for public sector workers, sustain public services and grow our economy. The Chancellor’s budget has done little to close the gap on the pressures we face.

“There is a duty on the Westminster government to fairly fund us. It is crucial they urgently get back round the table and work with us to agree a fair financial package that protects essential public services, supports transformation and places our finances on a sustainable footing.”