Northern Ireland Economist at PwC comments on the impact of Budget 2026 on Northern Ireland

Greg Boyd, Northern Ireland Economist at PwC UK, commented:

“The UK Budget provides some immediate support for Northern Ireland households against a challenging economic backdrop. The fuel-duty freeze is particularly relevant given our high reliance on private vehicles. Energy support is less straightforward, as measures applying in Great Britain may not automatically extend to Northern Ireland.

“There is clearer good news for lower earners and pensioners. The minimum wage increase will benefit Northern Ireland's relatively large share of low-paid workers, albeit at a cost to employers. The new Pension Tax Allowance will offer some protection to the significant number of older low-income households here.

“Many of the Chancellor's spending announcements will not apply directly in Northern Ireland, where areas such as health and education are devolved. However, the Budget will give the Executive an additional £270 million through the Barnett formula. How that money is spent depends on Stormont agreeing a budget, but seven months into the financial year, it still hasn't. This additional funding therefore arrives into an uncertain fiscal position.”

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