Taoiseach Enda Kenny has told the Dáil that the Government would accelerate the phased abolition of the Universal Social Charge.

A further 90,000 low-paid workers are to be taken out of the USC net in the next budget.

Mr Kenny also pledged to cut the 7% rate of USC for those earning less than €70,000.

The Taoiseach was speaking during a Dáil debate on yesterday's Spring Statement.

About 330,000 people were taken out of the USC by this Government since coming into office and before the last budget.

80,000 were then taken out in Budget 2015.