asked the Minister for Finance whether, in view of the fact that nurses in county hospitals, whose remuneration consists of a basic salary and a sum retained by the county council in respect of the value of their board, lodgings, uniform and other emoluments, are now being assessed for income-tax purposes on the amount of their salary so retained by the county council, he will introduce proposals for legislation to amend the income-tax code by ensuring that such money which they never receive will not be regarded as part of their income.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Hospital Nurses: Income-Tax Impost.
Mr. O'Higgins
The position in this matter was fully explained in the reply given by the acting-Minister for Finance to the question which was addressed to him by Deputy Spring on the 18th November, 1953.
Mr. O'Higgins
Surely the Minister can indicate whether the obvious grievance dealt with in the question will be considered for solution in the coming legislation in connection with the Financial Resolutions? The position is that these nurses are charged income-tax on money which they never receive and it does appear that it is a matter which should receive the attention of the Minister.
It would be entirely improper for me to make any premature disclosure of the Budget proposals. I should have Deputy Donnellan, Deputy O'Higgins and others on my tail if I did.
Mr. O'Higgins
This is not a question directed to the disclosure of any of the Budget proposals. I asked the Minister whether he will introduce proposals for legislation to remedy this grievance and surely that is a matter to which the Minister could give a reply?