Cabinet ministers will begin the task of compiling their Budget 2009 submissions today.

It follows the Finance Minister Brian Lenihan's decision to announce the details of the budget for next year on October 14th, almost two months earlier than planned.

This is the first time a Government has ever taken the decision to bring forward the date for announcing the details of a budget.

It usually takes place every December.

The Finance Minister Brian Lenihan says the move will give clarity and confidence to investors and taxpayers and will give a sound base for economic recovery.

Government ministers are being warned to revise their spending projections and have been asked to have their pre-budget submissions in by next week.

It's understood that Budget 2009 will contain a range of new measures to help first time homebuyers in order to revive the ailing property market.

And it's likely that Ireland will, for the first time, exceed European borrowing limits in both 2008 and 2009.