Taoiseach Brian Cowen has warned that the Budget is only a first step towards solving the country's economic problems, and not a quick answer to the crisis.
Mr Cowen told the Irish Management Institute that the Budget would also lay the foundation for a long-term economic strategy.
He said that while the Budget would impact on everyone, the Government would not be going after the most vulnerable.
Mr Cowen also said that the number of junior ministers would be reviewed as part of overall Government.
