Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

208. To ask the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the threshold for the higher level of income tax rate of 41% which is calculated at earnings of €32,801 and over, which is by far the lowest threshold amount in the OECD, in view of the fact that many countries have a higher rate threshold of over €100,000, for example, and although Ireland's progressive tax system is to be commended, his views that this extremely low threshold is victimising the lower middle income earners who have been one of the most affected groups in society in recent budgets; his views that there is room for change with regard to the threshold amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37098/14]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This Government, in recognition of the income tax burden shouldered by the Irish people, included a commitment in the programme for Government, not to increase income tax rates and to maintain the existing income tax credits and bands. I am glad to report that this commitment has been achieved. Furthermore, the Deputy will be aware that I am on record stating that I believe that the burden of income tax in Ireland is too high and that it is my intention to reduce it when the state of the public finances allows me to do so.

In this regard, the recent Government Statement of Priorities contains a commitment that in Budget 2015, a tax reform plan will be announced, to be delivered over a number of budgets, to reduce the 52% marginal rate of income tax on low and middle income earners, in a manner that maintains the highly progressive nature of the Irish tax system.