Vol. 493 No. 2
134 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Finance the estimated revenue foregone by the Exchequer in 1998 as a result of the thresholds of £207 per week in the employment and training levy; and the total cost including the cost relating to the changes in 1998. [15545/98]
135 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Finance the estimated revenue foregone by the Exchequer in 1998 as a result of the thresholds of £207 per week in the health levy; and the total cost including the cost relating to the changes in 1998. [15546/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 135 together.
Individuals whose incomes do not exceed £207 per week for employees and £10,750 per annum for the self-employed are not liable to the employment and training levy and the health contribution. Incomes exceeding those thresholds, which include the increases announced in the 1998 budget, are subject to both levies in full. The cost to the Exchequer of maintaining the exemption thresholds at their current levels, estimated by reference to the budget forecasts for 1998, are estimated at £34 million for the employment and training levy, and £42 million for the health contribution.
