The People Before Profit-Solidarity (PBP) party is preparing for a general election with a key focus on implementing a wealth tax on industries and millionaires. While convening in Dublin before their return to the Dáil, they unveiled plans to substitute the Universal Social Charge (USC) with this proposed taxation.
Party member, Richard Boyd Barrett, spoke of utilising the wealth of affluent members of society and prosperous businesses to combat various issues, such as the ongoing housing crisis. He asserted that this could alleviate living expenses and offer essential funding for necessary public services. This includes providing equal educational opportunities to children with specific needs.
Boyd Barrett claimed that the €14 billion windfall from the Apple tax case could potentially double the construction of social and affordable residentials within the next five years. It could contribute significantly towards combating the nation’s escalating homelessness and housing crisis.
On the topic of historical abuse at religious schools, Mick Barry, a Solidarity TD, insisted on the establishment of a compensation scheme for victims. He also suggested that the assets, including land and funds, of religious orders should be seized by the government to cover the costs of reparations.
In anticipation of the upcoming general election, Boyd Barrett revealed that PBP has put forward approximately 30 candidates and is planning to participate in all 43 constituencies. The party believes it can uphold its present strength in Dáil, and also make advancements.
Currently, PBP holds five seats in the Dáil. Dublin South-Central TD, Bríd Smith, won’t be entering the race for the general election. Her successor, Hazel De Nortúin, spoke about her increasing familiarity with the magnitude of Smith’s previous role. De Nortúin is optimistic about retaining the position, owing to her diligent local work in the Ballyfermot and Drimnagh ward.
Paul Murphy from PBP pointed out an upcoming Private Members’ Motion in the Dáil following the recent scarcity of spots in schools for children with special needs, coupled with an extensive waiting list for needs assessment and therapeutic services. While expressing outrage, he mentioned over a hundred families anxiously awaiting school placements for their children at the start of the academic year. Murphy called on behalf of the PBP for an increase in therapist training spots and the introduction of special education classes in all schools across the nation.