More nurses and doctors, a reduction in prescription charges for people with medical cards and a sugar tax are just some of the health-related measures expected in today's Budget.

According to Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, there will 'no big bonanza' and ‘no fireworks' in Budget 2018, however he insisted that it will be a ‘good budget overall'.

He said that increased spending in health and education will allow for more doctors, nurses and teachers.

A 50c reduction in prescription charges for people with a medical card is also expected.

Some social welfare payments are expected to rise by €5 per week, including the State Pension and Lone Parents Allowance. And while the Child Benefit payment is not expected to increase, free childcare hours for toddlers will be made available.

The cost of a pack of cigarettes is expected to be increased for the sixth year in a row, while it is unclear whether excise duty on alcohol will change.

Meanwhile, the long talked about sugar tax is expected to be announced today, however, it will probably not be introduced until spring of 2018. It is unclear what form this tax will take, but a charge on fizzy drinks is expected.

Budget 2018 will be announced by the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure, Paschal Donohoe, in the Dail today.