Free Public Transport: A Step Toward Equality and Sustainability
The Social Democrats have justified free public transport for under-18s as a two-part strategy. This is because the initiative could ease costs for families and encourage the use of public transport, consequently developing bottom-up carbon reduction. Party co-leader Róisín Shortall said, It is time to turn things around for youth, for those hoping to start and build a future, and at the same time, address climate emergency aggressively as the major campaign issue.
It would apply to all buses, trains, and trams used in the Irish geography with annual costs estimated to be €150 million. Critics raise the issue of the financial rationality of the plan, while proponents claim that the return on young people and sustainable transport will more than pay for the undertaking.
Targeting the Super Wealthy: A Controversial New Tax
s arresting is the party’s policy to impose a “super wealthy” tax. This measure would affect those with a minimum net worth of €10 million to be channeled towards financing essential state needs like shelter as well as healthcare. The opponents point out that the tax will reduce Ireland’s inequality according to the Social Democrats while it has received criticism from business people and other rich people. “This is not about penalizing success this is about equity,” Catherine Murphy, the deputy leader, stressed.
Potential Impact on the Election
However, as election day draws closer the policies tabled by the Social Democrats may inspire young people and families, in addition to those annoyed by the ever-growing gap between the rich and the poor. But the question is are all these proposals likely to garner enough support to pose a threat to Ireland’s powerhouses?
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