Leader’s responses on tax and welfare
The Leader says tax reductions must be funded elsewhere, rejects the proposed lone-parent amendment and notes that ambulance-cover concerns will be considered, while defending the Government’s welfare reforms.
Senator White raised the question of inheritance tax with specific reference to her new constituency. On the general issue of tax, including inheritance tax, if we reduce tax in one area it must be recovered in another area. I am sure the Minister for Finance would welcome suggestions from the Senator and Fianna Fáil before the budget regarding where that money would come from. If they are sensible, he might act upon them.
Comment on this
I note the Senator's comments on the cuts to one-parent family payments and the comments made by Senator Norris regarding Deputy Stagg. They are the views of the Deputy and I cannot comment on what he puts in e-mails and so forth. I will not accept the proposed amendment to the Order of Business. We have dealt with the issue on several occasions in the House. Senator Bacik outlined the reforms in the social protection system, particularly the job activation measures.
Senators Conway and Daly called for a debate on ambulance cover, particularly in counties Clare and Kerry. Perhaps that could be raised at the health fora which have been set up by the HSE in the various areas. Representatives could raise the matter at the health forum also. With regard to specific issues in Clare and Kerry, Commencement Matters are the only way they can be dealt with in this House. I am sure the Members will avail of that facility.
While I respect Senator Leyden's concern for Ibrahim Halawa, he was grandstanding a little on the issue today.