Fine Gael opened its annual two-day parliamentary party think-in in Gorey, County Wexford, on Thursday, bringing together ministers, TDs, senators, and councillors to map out legislative and policy strategy ahead of Budget 2027.

The gathering comes as coalition partners Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil navigate differing perspectives on key fiscal proposals ahead of the budget presentation scheduled for October. Party leader and Tánaiste Simon Harris told members that Fine Gael's budget focus will center on rewarding employment, lowering everyday household expenses, delivering public services, and advancing housing initiatives.

Key policy areas under discussion during the event include targeted reliefs for childcare and energy costs, alongside increased supports for carers, older people, and individuals with disabilities. Party representatives emphasized that relief measures must be managed responsibly to safeguard public finances while delivering direct benefit to working households.

The discussions unfold against a backdrop of public debate between coalition figures over tax policy. While Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers of Fianna Fáil has sought to manage expectations regarding overall tax cuts, Fine Gael figures maintain that workers should see noticeable tax relief in their pay packets. Differences have also emerged on specific proposals, such as scrapping stamp duty for first-time home buyers—a move supported by Fianna Fáil but opposed by Fine Gael.

Local Wicklow-Wexford TD Brian Brennan welcomed the selection of Gorey for the conference, noting that bringing senior ministers and lawmakers to a major regional town helps ensure rural community priorities remain central to national decision-making.