Taoiseach rules out tax hikes despite deficit

Taoiseach Michéal Martin said the Government was of the view that income tax should not rise, adding that despite the large deficit, the programme for government commitment would be honoured. Picture: Julien Behal Photography

Income taxes and Universal Social Charge (USC) rates will not be increased by the Government as it seeks to plug a €40bn hole in the public finances caused by Covid-19, Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said.

Mr Martin said the Government was of the view that income tax should not rise, adding that despite the large deficit, the programme for government commitment would be honoured.