Singling out separated fathers is too harsh

The group which has been most severely hit in this budget is separated fathers as a result of the abolition of the Single Parent Family Tax Credit.

An analysis of the debate on this issue gives an insight into why the Government feels safe in singling out separated fathers. A number of politicians and media commentators have criticised this particularly harsh budgetary measure.

All start by acknowledging that more than 95% of those directly affected will be separated fathers. Having acknowledged this irrefutable fact, they then go on to argue against the measure by surmising that in some cases the fathers will seek to reduce maintenance payments to their wives, thereby passing on some of the pain to women.

Their attitude seems to be that if it impoverishes men only, then there is no valid argument against it, but if it also affects women, then it must be opposed. This misandrist mindset, which deems men’s rights and well-being to be inferior to those of women, is rampant in media commentary and in the governance of this country.

This is reflected in the reaction of the Department of Finance who will reportedly permit the tax credit to be transferred to the father if the mother agrees.

If 95% of those affected by a harsh budgetary measure were separated mothers would opposition politicians and media commentators argue against it on the basis that it could possibly have adverse effects on men too?

Would such outrageous acts of misogyny be tolerated in the same way as these outrageous acts of misandry?

Matt Harper

Clones Road

Monaghan