The Tanaiste Joan Burton says it will take more than one or two budgets to get Ireland back to economic prosperity.

Earlier, the Education Minister Jan O'Sullivan said the government cannot afford to "lose the run" of itself in the budget, amid reports that Ms Burton has briefed Labour ministers on a shortlist of tax relief options.

It is understood any changes to income tax will be focused on giving the greatest benefit to low and middle income families.

But Ms O'Sullivan says no decision has yet been made.

A Red C opinion poll at the weekend showed support for the Labour party at 8% - far behind opposition parties Fianna Fáil and Sinn Fein.

Ms Burton spoke to the Pat Kenny Show here on Newstalk, and asked the electorate to trust the Labour Party to deliver Ireland to economic recovery.