Mairead Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

On the amendment, I agree with Deputy Boyd Barrett that we need to have a conversation and a debate in regard to wealth taxes. We have long been arguing that those people who earn more should be paying more and we have been quite clear on that, budget after budget. We would probably look to have something a bit broader than this but the fact we would have a discussion and that this report would start the conversation in regard to introducing a progressive wealth tax is important and welcome.

What we have seen, and what was clearly outlined in the debate on the previous two amendments, is that people have really been suffering. Just yesterday, I was knocking on doors in an estate beside my own estate, and one thing that came back clearly from people is that they are seeing their costs rise and rise. Many people are struggling because they have not seen their income rise in any way, shape or form. However, there are those who have done better out of the pandemic and who, if asked, would be more than willing to pay more to help because they know there needs to be that element of solidarity.

While we would probably look at a broader, more comprehensive report in this regard, it is welcome and, in fact, crucial that we start this conversation in regard to a wealth tax and in regard to those who earn more being able to pay more. This would be very welcome and I will support the amendment.