Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The expected yield from this along with the money in respect of the 3% on pensioners, which is approximately €38 million in a full year, should be compared with what would have been achieved if the Tánaiste had got his way and added 3% to the universal social charge for those earning more than €100,000, which would yield up to €200 million. The Government would have had far greater choices if it had access to cash in that regard.

The Minister has extended carbon tax to solid fuel, a measure that will hit many of the poorest households that rely on coal and turf for basic heating. Some of these people have installed stoves in recent years and will be particularly hard hit by the addition of carbon tax to solid fuels. The Minister should reconsider this measure which will hit the poorest households the hardest.

Our budget submission called on the Minister to build the budget around certain priorities. The priorities we suggested were the areas of education, mental health and disabilities. Considering what is proposed in the budget, I am deeply concerned that the health cuts being unveiled will result in further cuts in direct services for people with disabilities.

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