The rain did the work of the security services for them – that and a less protest-friendly Budget 2027 period compared to last year. When Budget 2026 was announced a year ago, the barriers were out, roads closed off, and the gardaí were reluctant to let budget watchers walk down Kildare Street to Buswell’s Hotel. This year, gardaí sheltered from the downpour in doorways and railings were stacked on the pavement ready for deployment – but they weren’t needed. However, easy access to the traditional watch party at the hotel, where lobbyists, spokespeople and journalists gather each October to react…

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