Fine Gael: We can afford to cut USC

Fine Gael is pushing for a one percentage point reduction to the Universal Social Charge in next October’s budget in talks with Independents as part of government formation talks.

Several Independents were adamant that such a generous cut to the USC can only be considered if all of their issues are addressed first.

Several Fine Gael ministers, speaking yesterday to the Irish Examiner, confirmed that the party won 50 seats on a promise to abolish the USC, while Fianna Fáil also sought to have it abolished for earners up to €80,000.