A Sinn Féin election candidate in Limerick has announced that the party will abolish the Universal Social Charge (USC) if it is elected to government. The pledge, which aims to address the rising cost of living, has been described as a cornerstone of Sinn Féin’s campaign to provide financial relief to workers and families.
Speaking at a community event in Limerick, the candidate outlined the party’s vision, stating that the removal of the USC would ease the financial burden on households, stimulate economic growth, and ensure fairer taxation. The proposal, they argued, is part of Sinn Féin’s broader plan to prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens.
“The Universal Social Charge has been a thorn in the side of ordinary workers for too long,” the candidate said. “Sinn Féin is committed to ensuring that hard-earned wages are not eaten up by unfair taxes.”
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The USC, introduced during the financial crisis, has been a controversial levy, generating billions of euros annually for the government. Its proposed abolition has drawn criticism from political opponents and economists, who warn of potential budgetary challenges. Critics question how Sinn Féin intends to make up for the lost revenue and whether the move is financially sustainable in the long term.
Despite these concerns, the announcement has resonated with many voters who are struggling to cope with inflation and rising costs. Supporters of the proposal view it as a bold step toward alleviating financial pressures and redistributing wealth more equitably.
Sinn Féin has positioned itself as a party of change ahead of the upcoming elections, with the promise to scrap the USC forming a key part of its platform.