Reducing tax rates in the upcoming budget would be inappropriate and irresponsible, according to Fórsa General Secretary, Kevin Callinan.

Kevin was speaking at a report launch event by the independent think-tank Tasc. The report, titled "The State We Are In: Inequality in Ireland 2023," suggests that there has been an increase in inequality in Ireland from 2020 to 2021.

In his speech he highlighted the consensus that cutting taxes would be inappropriate, especially with the risks associated with corporate tax revenue as distinct from an indexation of tax bands. He argued that reducing taxation would be irresponsible as the State requires more resources to address pressing issues such as housing and public services.

“Advocating for tax cuts as the solution to the Cost-of-Living crisis in a country with a rapidly growing population and obvious deficits in public services is dishonest. We urgently need to allocate funds towards social issues like housing and childcare. These immediate issues must be addressed and take priority over any tax cuts,” said the union chief.

"Irish citizens should have the expectation of improving living standards in an economy with robust fiscal revenues and profitable companies. We need EU levels of collective pay bargaining not tax cuts,” said Kevin.  

The report, written by Rob Sweeney, backed Kevin Callinan’s points recommending that the Government resist pressure for tax cuts and instead invest in the continued support for households and improved provision of services such as childcare, which act as a barrier to employment.