With the end of the Covid-19 pandemic in sight, there were two key factors revealed to help the public during Budget 2022.
Last Tuesday, Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe addressed the nation to explain everything that'll come in the next year finance-wise.
In the build-up to Budget day, there was a lot of talk about two key things: an extra bank holiday and a 'Covid bonus' for those who kept the country running during the pandemic on the frontline.
Here's the latest update from the Government on both of those ideas.
Covid bonus
Speaking during the Budget 2022 announcement , Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath opened his speech by reiterating his commendation of the Irish public for their "extraordinary efforts" during the pandemic.
Given that an announcement on the Covid bonuses for frontline workers is "not a Budget issue" according to the Taoiseach, Mr McGrath said recognition for people "who helped our country get through the last 18 months" will be given "in the coming weeks"
There is also no clarity as to what exactly this bonus will entail either.
Some have suggested a pay rise, some have suggested extra annual leave.
One thing we do know is that it'll be much more worthwhile than a round of applause.
Extra bank holiday
A date for a new Bank Holiday is also expected to be announced in the next month.
The ongoing debate over when Ireland's new bank holiday date should be has continued since the idea was first floated.
The two main days that have been suggested over the past few weeks are St. Brigid's day, on February 1, and a Thanksgiving date in November.
The former is more popular with the public as a Thanksgiving holiday would have no real connection to Ireland, as opposed to St Brigid's Day.
