Inheritance tax has evolved into a point of contention in recent political discussions, with implications that the budget may undergo amendments. This has garnered support from senior members of Fine Gael who are keen to facilitate greater inheritance without the burden of additional tax. Is this appropriate, however? Is it merely enhancing the status of the more affluent members of society? Or does it highlight real inconsistencies that warrant attention?
On another note, Dalata cites a ‘technical error’ for the reason behind the cancellation of Manchester hotel bookings for Oasis concerts. In other news, a Turkish consortium is set to acquire the erstwhile Quinn industrial empire in a deal worth €330m. Ulster Bank’s flagship branch at College Green is back on the property market for a price of €14m.
One must also ponder upon the ethical implications of their pension fund supporting oil firms and arms manufacturers.
During the latter part of the programme, Munro O’Dwyer, a collaborator with PwC Ireland, deliberated on the possible alterations to the existing pension scheme for high-income earners. Earlier in the week, PwC published a report highlighting issues with the current €2 million standard fund threshold for pensions, a matter they are lobbying to be reviewed in the budget. This broadcast was facilitated by John Casey and supported by JJ Vernon on sound.