Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The reason we do not think this Bill is a good idea is because we believe it could force staff working in pubs and restaurants to pay tax on their tips. I heard the Deputy say that she thinks they should pay tax on them anyway and I am glad she has admitted that in this House because that would be the effect of this Bill. It would put tips through payroll and staff would have to pay tax on them and they may have it counted it against them when it comes to applying for a medical card, the working family payment or social housing. She should not just believe me on this. This matter was examined by the Low Pay Commission, which unanimously came out against it, including the union representatives on the commission. In their submissions to the commission, the Green Party and Fianna Fáil Party also objected to this measure so the Deputy should not just take my word on it. She should take the word of the Low Pay Commission.

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