VAT on house payments

THERE has been much conversation about the new household charge which is, for many of us, a VAT charge on mortgage payments. Attempts to label this tax a wealth or property tax are just not accurate.

However it may evolve, for now the reality is that this €100 is in fact a VAT on our house payments. Those renting don’t pay, those buying do.

A tax of home ownership or property tax would only apply to those of us who own property. Moreover, I suggest that many of the elderly, the unemployed and those on reduced incomes might in fact be caught in a property tax with little ability to pay.

This is not a good idea at this time.

If you want tax revenue increased, tax those who can pay, ie those with strong income streams.

This household tax is badly targeted and smacks of inexperience and arrogance. Where are the public servants whose advice would keep egg off the Government faces and what are the new high paid advisers being paid to do?

Caitríona McClean

Lucan

Co Dublin