Government has become detached

Reading your report on the household charge (Irish Examiner, Mar 19) I was left with the distinct impression that the Government has decided to go to war with the people of this country.

The language used by Phil Hogan underscores what is fast becoming a reality; our new Government has already become detached.

The Government seems incapable of understanding that people living on State pensions and basic welfare supports cannot afford this or any other additional charge. In addition, together with the poorest having to pay the same as the richest, the exemption of all those living in council houses, regardless of their household income, renders this tax totally regressive and unjust.