The increase is due to apply from January. The full €10 therefore does not come on top of indexation: that adjustment is included in the announced rise. Maximum pensionable income for people born before 1962 is to increase to €28,000.
The budget also provides for another phase of tax cuts for parents and retains energy subsidies. New tourist charges and fees affecting third-country nationals are among the measures announced.
The Chamber of Commerce welcomed support for families and pensioners but criticised the lack of a sufficient response to productivity problems and higher work permit costs. These are budget announcements whose implementation remains to be followed.