The stealth and indirect taxes, referred to by Senator McDowell, are also a cause of concern. While there was a spin put on the reduction in direct taxes, indirect taxes have increased, whether it be increases in local authority rates, higher bin collection charges, extra duty on credit cards and higher gas bills resulting from the 1% increase in the lower rate of VAT. There have also been increased charges on petrol, VRT and motor tax. This is evidence that there is something wrong with the economy.