There will be reductions in the minimum wage and public-sector pay , and a hike in the value-added tax on goods and services , Cowen said . Around 300 demonstrate in Dublin . The plan saves 15 billion euros through welfare cuts and higher taxes . Ireland 's prime minister says it is needed to tackle the country 's massive debt . Trade unions call the plan ` ` risky and regressive ''
Around 300 demonstrate in Dublin . The plan saves 15 billion euros through welfare cuts and higher taxes . Ireland 's prime minister says it is needed to tackle the country 's massive debt . Trade unions call the plan ` ` risky and regressive ''