Gilmore denies hiding bad news to avoid backlash on referendum day

THE Government has insisted it is not trying to hide bad news items ahead of the crucial referendum on the EU fiscal compact.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said the work of the coalition is “continuing as normal” despite a raft of reports, new charges and cuts being put off until after the May 31 vote.

A new property tax report recommending site valuation charges ranging from €188 to €3,000 was due to be published by the end of April. The Department of the Environment said it has still not been presented to Environment Minister Phil Hogan.