asked the Minister for Finance if he will arrange for the payment made to part-time fire brigade staff to be free of income tax.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Income Tax Remission for Fire Brigade Staff.
35.
The relief suggested would be contrary to the general principles of the income tax code.
An allowance in respect of expenses has been agreed with the Fire Officers and Firemens Association of Ireland.
Has the Minister had any contact with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions in connection with this matter?
I understand that the Revenue Commissioners had contact with the Fire Officers and the Firemens Association, and representations were put forward about the extra expenses incurred by the firemen as a result of fires, and particularly in regard to their clothes. I understand that the arrangement made in relation to their expenses is a reasonable one and it would be quite impossible to create a special group of people subject to a change in the income tax code. The Deputy would know the difficulties involved in that.
I referred to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. Apparently the Minister is not aware that the trade union looking after the part-time fire brigade staff is affiliated to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions; the Fire Officers Association is not.
Is the Minister aware that this is having an adverse effect on voluntary fire services?
These changes that have been made in the expense allowances are fairly recent. They are only about two months agreed. Therefore, at least the Minister should have time to see the effect of the increased expense allowances that may be charged against income tax.
The Minister is fiddling while Rome could burn. This is a matter that should be looked into.