Poll shows fall for FG; support for tax rise on €100k-plus earnings

A new opinion poll suggests a significant drop in support for Fine Gael in the past month as the abortion controversy rolled on.

The Red C poll for tomorrow's Sunday Business Post suggests an overwhelming majority of people want legislation for the 'X-Case', including the suicide issue.

As Ministers gather for another pre-Budget meeting this evening, a huge majority want a higher tax on those earning more than €100,000.

At 28%, Fine Gael has suffered a six-point drop in support in the past month and it puts the party at its lowest level of support in over four years.

Fianna Fáil is up 1% to 20%, its highest rating in 26 months.

Labour are also up 1% to 14%, Sinn Féin stay steady on 17%, and independents are up four to 21%.

On abortion, 85% want legislation for the X-Case including suicide, while 82% want it where the health, rather than the life, of the woman is at risk and also in cases of rape.

On the budget, 88% want a tax for those earning over €100k, and 67% said this should be done before other measures.

Up to 55% polled want public sector pay cut and two thirds would not cut social welfare, including child benefit and pensions.