330,000 low earners rightly taken out of USC net

Today's announcement that approximately 330,000 low income earners will be taken out of the Universal Social Charge net, coupled with the reintroduction of the minimum wage, are evidence that since the election, Labour has acted decisively to help low income earners.

The exemption level for the USC has been raised from €4,004 to €10,036, to help low income earners, many of whom are part-time and seasonal workers. I have outlined the inherent unfairness in the USC before, and I am very pleased that those on the lowest incomes have now been taken out the USC net.

I also welcome the announcement of the raising of mortgage interest relief to 30%, for first time buyers who bought homes between 2004 and 2008.This move will help those who bought at the height of the boom, many of whom are experiencing negative equity and difficulties with their mortgages. Many of these people have contacted me about their circumstances since being elected and today's announcement will be welcomed by them.

Another move I welcome is the extension of the betting levy to online and phone operators, to bring in an estimated €20 million annually. This has been Labour policy for a number of years and as well as bringing in additional income, it should mean that the Horse and Greyhound Fund will be self-financing, which was the intention when the fund was first introduced.

These measures and others relating to extra training and job supports announced in the budget, signal Labour's intention to support the unemployed and low income earners, as we restore our public finances and rebuild our economy.