Tax talk causing ‘distress’ claims Dooley

Reports this week that the Government is considering the introduction of a property tax from next January is causing concern among homeowners across the county and, according to one Clare deputy, the lack of information in relation to it is adding to the stress.

Deputy Timmy Dooley says families in the county are already at the pin of their collar and cannot afford to pay such a tax.
His comments follow reports that the Government plans to introduce a property tax based on market value from January, 2013.
“I have spoken to many homeowners in Clare who are genuinely worried about how they will pay these new property taxes from next year,” the Fianna Fáil deputy said.
He claimed the Government “has caused great distress and confusion” in because of this proposed tax and called on them to be honest with householders about their plans.
“The Government’s failure to communicate properly with public and to introduce a fair system based on people’s ability to pay resulted in unnecessary chaos. A property tax based on value would be very unfair on householders, particularly at a time when it is extremely difficult to provide a real assessment of property values in Clare.
“A system like this fails to take into account the extent of the mortgage crisis that is growing every day.
“The latest CSO figures published this week show that 10.9% of all mortgages are in arrears of more than 90 days. Does the Government expect homeowners in Clare who are in serious mortgage difficulty to pay hundreds of euro a year in property taxes,” he said.
“After the mess over the household charge, homeowners deserve some honesty from Government about what is coming down the line.
“People who are struggling to pay their mortgages and other household bills need to know what else they have to budget for next year,” he concluded.