CAMPAIGNERS today claimed there has been a massive snub to the latest tax – the septic tank charge.
They claim just SIX PER CENT of homes in Donegal have registered with the county council.
“Even the County Manager cannot put a positive spin on the figures he released this week for septic tank registration.” said Micheal Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig, spokesperson for Can’t Pay Won’t Pay.
“Only 2,486 septic tanks were registered by 17th September, less than 6% of the total,” he continued.
“These figures are proof that the boycott of the registration process is working. Septic tank owners know only too well that if they register they are setting themselves up for potentially ruinous bills in the future. It is a disgrace that we are still awaiting government guidelines on what constitutes a compliant septic tank after all this time. The government are clearly afraid that if they reveal the required standards, then many, many people will realise that they face massive bills to get their septic tanks to meet them.”
“We are challenging Mr. Neely to reveal how he arrived at his calculation that 51% of households have paid Household Tax.
“Last month councillor John Campbell proved that Donegal County Council was deliberately understating the numbers of non-paying households. No one from the Council has challenged his figures, based on CSO figures and census data., which showed that more than 45,000 households in the county, more than 60%, have not paid Household Tax.
“Ordinary homeowners throughout the county have shown enormous resilience and determination in the face of bullying and intimidation by the authorities over many months, by resolutely refusing to pay. As a third threatening letter is sent out to second home owners, Donegal County Council cuts services and councils threaten to delay Higher Education grants to young people, many are feeling bombarded.
“We are calling on all those who have not paid to remain firm. Despite all the bluster and threats, the authorities are losing this battle and are resorting to scare-mongering. Anyone worried by a letter from the County Council threatending them with legal action should contact our camapgin for help.
“The Household Tax has proven to be unworkable and uncollectable. The Septic Tank registration process is heading the same way. If we contine to stand together we can see an end to both.”
Can’t Pay Won’t Pay are urging supporters to take part in a protest picket this Friday 21st at 10am outside Dinny McGinley’s office in Gweedore.
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