Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)

The introduction of the local government household charge will only compound the plight of many householders who are already stretched to the limit to exist in any kind of reasonable comfort. Until the intended property tax levy on households and water tax in 2014, it seems this €100 household charge is only an interim measure. This charge and its implementation will set the standard for all future charges. We will certainly face a property tax and a water tax.

The Bill proposes an inequitable tax. Those living in the very basic and modest homes with low incomes will be forced to pay the same amount as the very wealthy with large homes. The old adage of the last straw breaking the camel's back comes to mind regarding this charge as the majority of householders can ill afford this further burden on their finances already strained to the very last. The past four budgets have dealt ordinary people several hammer blows and upwards of €30 billion has been taken out of the economy. In this deflated and depressed economy, householders are once more being targeted for the crimes of the bankers and speculators and the general mismanagement in governance in this country.

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