Government cock-up leaves thousands of pensioners sick with worry – Crowe

Dublin South West TD Seán Crowe has said the government’s handling of 115,000 pensioners facing tax liabilities has left thousands sick with worry and fright.

Deputy Crowe said it will come across as unbelievable to most people that two government departments, revenue and social protection, have not been sharing information regarding people on state pensions and private pensions.

Speaking today as thousands of pensioners were informed that they have not been paying the proper level of tax Deputy Crowe said:

“This news comes as people are trying to get used to new budgetary arrangements such as the increased VAT rate, the household charges, septic tank levies and increased motor and fuel taxes.

“This latest news will have come as a huge shock.

“The government’s handling of the issue has been shambolic.  First of all these people were told that they are liable for more tax in 2012. This morning a spokesperson from revenue, speaking on RTÉ, didn’t rule out revenue pursuing these pensioners for back payments over a period of six years causing further shock for these people.  And then by eleven o’clock they are told that they do not need to do anything.

“The Taoiseach needs to call in his Ministers and get straight answers and bring clarity to this shambolic situation. Thousands of pensioners are sick with worry and fright and need to be relieved of this latest burden.”