Burton forced to clarify house tax gaffe

Social Protection Minister Joan Burton was forced to clarify comments after incorrectly suggesting the household charge could be paid in post offices.

On a day of confusion — labelled “farcical” by Sinn Féin finance spokesman Pearse Doherty — Ms Burton said she believed the option should have been made available from day one.

Calling the Mar 31 deadline for the payment of the charge “ambitious”, Ms Burton said the timeframe would not be extended.