Minister for Finance and Fianna Fáil National Director of Elections Jack Chambers says the proposals contained in the Sinn Féin would do enormous economic harm to Ireland and would heap pressure on hard working families and businesses.
Minister Chambers said: “It’s clear why the Sinn Féin manifesto has only been published now, with less than half the General Election campaign to go. They have been avoiding scrutiny because they know despite all the bluster and spin, they have a very weak offering for voters.
“With a whopping €3.5bn in tax hikes, Sinn Féin’s anti-enterprise manifesto would deter investment and make it harder to attract top talent to work into our country.
“At a time of such global uncertainty, investors are looking for stability with sensible taxation policies and prudent manage of our public finances. Sinn Féin offers the complete opposite with its high tax agenda.
“The cost of living is also a significant issue for so many people and although inflation is easing, pressures remain for people in towns and villages up and down the country.
“Sinn Fein would significantly exacerbate the cost of living challenges and the cost of doing business.
“In particular, they would increase gas and energy prices by increasing the VAT on gas and electricity to 13.5pc – an incredible 50pc increase at a time when energy bills are causing significant difficulty for households and enterprise.
“Fianna Fáil is committed to keeping this at 9pc to keep energy bills down."
Minister Chambers added: “Sinn Fein have also doubled down on their policy to crucify First Time Buyers – there will be about 125,000 first time buyers over the next five years for whom Sinn Fein want to get rid of the supports of up to €87,500.
"They also want to raid our future by abandoning the two long term funds – the Future Ireland Fund and the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund.
“These funding streams are essential to helping our country to meet future challenges in delivery of public services and essential capital projects.
“Sinn Fein don’t commit any funding to these, making no provision for future generations.
Minister Chambers concluded: “Sinn Féin’s manifesto is a week late and even weaker on supporting our people and businesses with the challenges we face now and into the future.”
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