Gilmore dismisses 'speculative' talk of Budget tax cuts

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has said that talk of significant relief for taxpayers in October's Budget is 'purely speculative'.

Gilmore dismisses 'speculative' talk of Budget tax cuts

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has said that talk of significant relief for taxpayers in October's Budget is 'purely speculative'.

Mr Gilmore was responding to a report in today's Irish Times which outlines the Government's intention to give major concessions to middle income taxpayers.

The newspaper report, citing an anonymous "senior Fine Gael minister", indicated that a "significant package" of concessions aimed at easing the burden on middle-income taxpayers would be included in the Budget as a signal that the "age of austerity" was coming to a close.

But speaking in Luxembourg today where he is chairing a meeting of the EU's General Affairs Council, Mr Gilmore said it was too early for such talk.

"This is April," he said.

"The Budget is (in) October.

"I think any discussion of the Budget at this stage is purely speculative."

The latest report follows recent statements by junior minister Brian Hayes which flagged future cuts to tax rates for middle income earners.

In comments to the Sunday Times earlier this month Minister Hayes - junior minister at the Department of Finance - said that tax reductions should be introduced within the next three years, but said income tax will not be cut in the Budget this October.

more courts articles

Gary Glitter victim seeking six-figure sum in damages, court told Gary Glitter victim seeking six-figure sum in damages, court told
Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother
Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van

More in this section

Travel Stock - Geneva - Switzerland UN human rights body calls for repeal or amendment of Troubles legacy laws
National Risk Assessment for Ireland Medicine-resistant infections the biggest risk facing Ireland, experts warn
Record level of children and adults in emergency accommodation Record level of children and adults in emergency accommodation
War_map
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited