Northern Ireland Finance Minister John O'Dowd stated that the Treasury allocated an additional £390 million to the Executive over the next three years. He made the comments in response to the Spring Forecast statement during an oral update to the Assembly.

O'Dowd noted that public service demands have increased alongside delivery costs. These factors continue to place strain on the region's finances despite the new funds.

The minister reported ongoing discussions with the British Government to reinstate a stabilisation fund. He described the fund as necessary to support public services and enable long-term changes.

A public consultation on a multi-year budget concluded today. Officials recorded more than 300 responses by lunchtime.