Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I fully intend to oppose Financial Resolutions Nos. 1 and 2. Each time the budget discussion comes before the House, there is an increase on the duty on cigarettes that affects ordinary people. I do not smoke myself but respect people who have to have a cigarette, on and off. It is difficult for them and a difficult time because many of these people are on pensions and low incomes and now they are hit with a cost of another 50 cent per box of cigarettes.

The carbon tax is a savage blow for the people of rural Ireland and I am shocked that Fianna Fáil is going to support that. This is a complete attack on the people of rural Ireland and nothing else. It must be opposed and I ask every Deputy here to stand by the people of rural Ireland and do not dare to support a further crucifixion of the people of rural Ireland.

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