Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 July 2014
93. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Government statement of Friday, 11 July 2014 committing to a reduction in the 52% tax rate on low and middle income earners means that a decision has been taken to reduce the actual marginal rate of tax in budget 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32424/14]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Statement of Priorities issued by the Government contains a commitment that we will announce, in Budget 2015, a tax reform plan to be delivered over a number of budgets, to reduce the 52% marginal tax rate on low and middle-income earners, in a manner that maintains the highly progressive nature of the Irish tax system.
As such, a decision has not been made to date, to reduce the marginal rate of tax. However, I am on record as stating my belief that income tax is too high in Ireland and that it is my intention to reduce it when the public finances allow me to do so.
In keeping with normal practice, I have no intention of setting out changes to the tax system in advance of the Budget. However, my officials will model and examine potential options for changes to the tax system for my consideration as part of the overall Budget process.
