Minister: No Coalition rift over property tax chaos

The Education Minister Ruairi Quinn is insisting there is no rift in the Coalition government over the property tax payment methods.

The Revenue Commissioners said householders wishing to pay the 2014 charge by card or cheque must do so by the end of the month.

The Revenue Chairman Josephine Feehily has been asked to appear before the Oireachtas Finance Committee to explain the decision.

Senior Labour Party figures, including the Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, are urging Revenue to reconsider the deadline.

Minister Quinn said he hopes the matter will be clarified as quickly as possible.

He said: "I think the Revenue Commissioners - in consultation with the government - will clarify any doubts that people have in relation to these matters. I don't want to add to the confusion that's already out there.

"I just think the matter should be clarified as quickly as possible for those who want it clarified".

When asked whether there was a rift growing over the issue, Mr. Quinn replied "No, no".