Independent Ireland’s manifesto vows to tackle Government waste

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Tackling Government waste and radically improving efficiency is the focus of the Independent Ireland election manifesto.

Independent Ireland is fronted by leader Michael Collins and co-founder Richard O’Donoghue as well as Michael Fitzmaurice, who formerly sat as Independent TDs in the Dáil. Former RTÉ correspondent Ciaran Mullooly represents the party as an MEP.

The party says it would balance the requirements of all citizens while acknowledging the “gap between a city-centric cabinet and the needs of the people of rural Ireland”.

It launched its election manifesto on Friday.

Among its core pledges are a new independent oversight body – recruited from the private sector – to “tackle Government waste, radically improve efficiency and deliver accountability”.

It is targeting a €2 billion annual saving from the operation of what it is calling the Department of Efficiency and Reform.

The manifesto also estimates it can reform an estimated €7 billion in support for the NGO sector through an immediate forensic review.

The party said it would freeze “green taxes” which it views as regressive and disproportionate towards lower and middle income families.

In addition, it would expand the lower rate tax bracket to those earning less than €75,000. It would also abolish the USC, property tax and PRSI for those aged over 65.

The party is pledging to reduce childcare costs.

Independent Ireland said it would also “secure our borders” and create special courts to deal with illegal immigration.

It says all international protection applications and final appeals will be processed within six months.

It would hasten deportation orders and end planning exemptions for asylum centres.

The party also claims it will address “profiteering” from private companies involved in the provision of asylum seeker accommodation.

Independent Ireland would declare a housing emergency and delivery affordable homes for people currently renting, it says.

The party would also loosen planning laws to allow property owners to build on their own land, and reduce VAT on building supplies.

On health, the party pledges to issue medical cards to all cancer patients, deliver accommodation support to healthcare workers, and increase services at smaller hospitals to reduce waiting lists.

It has outlined a €1 billion support package for the agriculture sector and stands against measures such as a cull of the national herd and an increase in the nitrates derogation.

In transport, the party wants to expand Luas-like light rail services to all 26 counties in the Republic.