The Tánaiste has reportedly told his Labour party colleagues that the government will make no further cuts to child benefit. 

According to the Sunday Times, Eamon Gilmore’s comments came on foot of his Labour Cabinet colleague Ruairí Quinn’s suggestion that a cut to child benefit could fund a second free pre-school year.

However, it is understood Mr Gilmore said that the government will not be imposing any further reductions to the €130 monthly payment.