Finance Bill tax debate
Senators dispute the proposed reduction in the higher income-tax rate and whether the issue should be debated during the Finance Bill’s Report Stage.
We all know how selective Senator Daly is capable of being in regard to who he represents. In any event, I shall not pursue the issue further.
The Senator mentioned the Belfast Agreement and talks taking place today. I wish the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, Prime Minister Cameron, Secretary of State Villiers and others the very best in seeking to reach an agreement. So far agreement has eluded them but, please God, further progress will be made today.
I was very surprised yesterday at the comments made by my good friend Senator Darragh O'Brien on the reduction of 1% in the higher rate of tax the Government is introducing. He voted against the relevant section of the Finance Bill yesterday. Let us remember that the higher rate of tax begins at €32,800 which is €3,000 less than the average industrial wage. How the blazes does that favour higher earners? It does not. This Government intends to push that figure up over the coming budgets.
Comment on this
We can debate that issue when we deal with the Report Stage of the Finance Bill later today.
Comment on this
We dealt with the section yesterday and the Opposition voted against the section.
Comment on this
Yes, and I will allow people to comment. I will not infringe on anybody's rights so the Cathaoirleach need not worry.
I want to answer some of the points made by my good friends opposite yesterday, and by Senator Cullinane and his colleagues as well. Perhaps Senator Cullinane did not mention it and instead it was his colleagues. I shall leave the issue at that for the moment.