Finance Minister Conor Murphy launches consultation on devolution of fiscal powers
Finance Minister, Conor Murphy has launched a consultation on increasing local control over taxation.
Encouraging people to participate in the consultation which will run from Monday 3 October to Monday 28 November, Minister Murphy said: “The Executive is responsible for less than £1 in every £20 of tax revenue raised locally.
“As a result the Executive is hugely dependent on a block grant which is being squeezed by Westminster, threatening the sustainability of our public services.
“The Scottish and Welsh Governments have more control over their tax affairs and it is time for a mature discussion on the potential benefits of greater control over taxation here.
“This discussion is all the more vital given that the Westminster government is embarking on a course of massive tax breaks for the wealthy which will reduce funding for public services and create more inequality.”
Minister Murphy continued: “The Fiscal Commission’s report has started a conversation around what additional fiscal powers could be provided to an Executive to allow locally elected Ministers to set taxes in line with local needs and circumstances.
“While it will be for an incoming Finance Minister to bring recommendations on this matter to a restored Executive, it is important that the public has its say.
“I encourage individuals, businesses and civic society to contribute to the consultation.”
To respond to the consultation visit:
https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/consultations/devolution-fiscal-powers
