Brian O'Shea
Ceist:169 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to grant tax relief to taxpayers whose only income is a non-index linked occupational pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29485/01]
Written Answers. - Tax Allowances.
I assure the Deputy that the tax position of the elderly in general will be borne in mind in the context of the forthcoming budget. However, I would point out that it is a general principle of taxation that, as far as possible, income from all sources should be subject to taxation including pensions, whether occupational or otherwise. I have no plans to change this position.
As the Deputy may be aware, those aged 65 and over are treated more favourably under the Irish income tax code than the generality of taxpayers and the improvements I have made to their tax position over the past four budgets has substantially enhanced that favoured position.