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Cothrom san Aois Nua
Equality in a New Century
Sinn Fein Pre-Budget 2000 Submission Summary
Housing
- Curbs on speculation in the housing market through an increase in Capital Gains Tax on speculative owners of multiple dwellings. Such a tax would be introduced on a phased basis over 2 years at 40% in April 2001 and 60% in April 2002. Abolition of stamp duties on houses whose 1999 value is £150,000 or under. Massive State investment in a comprehensive Social Housing Programme to end the housing crisis. Statutory control of the price of land zoned for housing.
Income Tax
- Increase personal tax allowances, benefitting the lower paid. Raise income level at which people enter the tax net.
Rural Development
- Extension of the Rural Renewal Scheme to all disadvantaged rural areas
Social Welfare
- Major across-the-board increases in social welfare payments, linking them to rate of average industrial earnings. Basic social welfare rates to be set at 50% of average earnings.
Health
- Extension of the medical card scheme to achieve an Irish National Health Service with free care and medication for all who need it.
Disability and Carers
- Exchequer funds are there to provide as never before for people with disabilities and carers. Increase Carer's Allowance to £110 per week. Create an Independent Living Fund for people with disabilities. Increase funding for day care, respite and personal assistance services.
Childcare
- Increase Child Benefit by at least £20 per child per month as a vital measure to assist families with their childcare needs. This is preferable to tax breaks which disproprotionately benefit higher paid workers.
- Support Childcare 2000 Campaign demand for a National Childcare Strategy with special emphasis on children and parents in disadvantaged communities.
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