Rural independents: Budget gives 'little to rural Ireland'
Leader of the Rural TDs Mattie McGrath said Budget 2024 offers little benefit to rural Ireland. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA
The Rural Independent Group of TDs has criticised the Government for imposing carbon tax hikes that they say disproportionately affect rural households, and said the budget has done little for rural Ireland.
Finance Minister Michael McGrath confirmed that the rate per tonne of carbon dioxide emitted for petrol and diesel will go up from €48.50 to €56 from October 11 as per the trajectory set out in the Finance Act 2020.
Rural TDs said the move is “especially harsh” on those working in transport who would see increased costs for fuel, including petrol and diesel.
Leader of the Rural TDs Mattie McGrath said Budget 2024 offers little benefit to rural Ireland.
"While the Government claims to empathise with the challenges faced by struggling citizens, it is, in reality, burdening them with higher expenses for essentials such as fuel and food.
The group said despite increased spending through one-time measures, the budget failed to make any meaningful improvements to public services, adding that it neglects the broader, long-term picture.
“This budget lacks any concrete measures to address the urgent need for more Gardaí, doctors, nurses, teachers, and social workers. While it includes short-term financial assistance, it falls short of addressing the root causes of poverty,” Mr McGrath said.
He said the Government's tax cuts will offer limited relief to low-income families while its decision to cut the Universal Social Charge (USC) will provide minimal assistance to lower-income families.
"This budget neglects to address waste, bureaucracy, and Government inefficiencies, resulting in the loss of billions of euros that could have been directed towards essential services like healthcare and education,” Mr McGrath said.
