Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)

I am glad the Minister of State admits that.

The Government could introduce a cap on wages in the public sector at €100,000, which would raise €265 million. It could introduce a third tax band of 48% on earnings over €100,000, which would bring in €410 million in a fair and progressive way. These are just two examples.

The household charge has been rejected by the people. As I said, the Government should move to scrap the charge and reimburse those who have paid. I urge all Deputies to examine this issue, recognise the deep hurt this policy is causing, accept there are more socially equitable means of raising local government funding and support this Bill.

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