Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This budget has been punitive for farmers. Whatever Deputy Tom Hayes says, it applies more to small farmers. PRSI, farm assist and this VAT measure make it very serious. The agriculture industry has been suffering over the past year. Although it had a lift in the past two years, the weather was bad over the summer and is bad again now. The sum of €21 million is a lot to take from small rural communities and will have a major impact.

With regard to motor tax, there is a total breach of faith and trust. It happened also in the previous two years beginning with the former Minister, Brian Lenihan.

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