In a move set to lighten the load on Irish wallets, Taoiseach Simon Harris has unveiled plans for a substantial tax cut in the upcoming Budget 2025. Speaking at the Ibec presidential dinner, Harris outlined a €1.4 billion tax package aimed at putting more money back in the pockets of hardworking citizens.
The centerpiece of this financial shake-up? A significant reduction in income tax and Universal Social Charge (USC). Harris emphasized that no one earning an average wage should find themselves paying the higher rate of income tax, signaling a potential boost for middle-income earners.
“As a country we have worked hard to reach full employment, and we want to ensure we make work pay,” Harris declared, setting the tone for a budget that aims to reward Ireland’s workforce.
Self-employed individuals have reason to cheer as well. The Taoiseach branded the USC surcharge on self-employed income as “unfinished business” for Fine Gael, vowing to abolish this “vestige of austerity.” He criticized the current system as a “perverse state of affairs” that unfairly penalizes risk-takers.
But it’s not just individual taxpayers who stand to benefit. Employers will see a reduction in PRSI contributions for minimum wage employees, a measure set to be announced on Budget Day as part of a broader 15-point plan to support Irish businesses.
Looking to the future, Harris also touched on the need for dialogue regarding Dublin Airport’s development, acknowledging the challenges posed by Ireland’s growing population.
As October 1st approaches, all eyes will be on the Dáil to see if Budget 2025 delivers on its promise of significant tax relief for the Irish people.