Yet again FF tax comments misleading and inaccurate – Donohoe

Fianna Fáil are once again misleading the public on Fine Gael’s tax proposals, according to Minister for Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe. 

 “Fine Gael’s tax proposals are simple and straightforward. Firstly, we want to increase the threshold where the higher rate of income tax kicks in.  We want to raise it from €36,500 to €50,000; with half of people earning more than €36,000, this means that nearly one million workers will benefit from this change. 

 “Secondly, we want to lift everyone who earns less than €20,000 out of paying the USC. Raising the USC exemption threshold will help 427,000 people on low incomes – those on minimum wage, part-time work and occupational pensions will all benefit from this improvement.

 “It is simply incorrect for Fianna Fáil to suggest that only 20% of people will benefit from our proposed changes; the true figure is 60% will benefit.

 “Fianna Fáil’s proposals on tax will effectively mean a tax increase of €777 by the end of five years of Fianna Fáil government.  Fianna Fáil will penalise workers if their proposals come into effect. 

 “Fine Gael on other hand wants to look forward and allow people to keep more of their own money where it belongs – in their pockets.  This will allow families and individuals spend more money on their households and in their communities.”