The Progressive Democrats proposals to cut public spending could only be achieved by a "major attack on social welfare, health, education, the environment and justice", according to Mr Gay Mitchell of Fine Gael.
The party's £3 billion target would necessitate means testing pensions, he suggested.
"Other good ideas from the PDs might be to reduce Garda numbers, reduce prison places, lengthen hospital queues and cut back on housing and environment spending."
