Speaking on one of the flaws in the Irish tax system Roscommon-Galway Election Candidate Denis Naughten has asked “Why are Trombones more important than toddlers ?”
“We have developed a crazy tax system which gives recognition to those playing the trombone but ignores the costs associated with raising children” , states Denis Naughten.
“Under our current tax system, a member of the RTE Concert Orchestra gets a flat rate tax relief of €2,475 per year, yet families who are struggling to hold down a job and pay for childcare get nothing,” explained Denis Naughten.
“Ireland is one of the few developed countries which fails to give any recognition to children within the taxation system.
“The next Government must recognise costs associated with childcare provision because for every €1 invested in children at preschool level, there is a payback of €16 to society.
“It is important to remember that our recovery is not simply about balancing books, but also about acknowledging what is important in our society.
“Surely we cannot continue to stand over a tax system where trombones are more important than toddlers?” asked Denis Naughten.