Michael Collins said they were 'a force to be reckoned with' even if they are only a year old

Independent Ireland pledges light rail expansion

22 Nov 2024, 15:34 by Paul Cunningham, https://www.facebook.com/rtenews/ · RTE.ie

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins has said the party is a "force to reckoned with", and that the party is ready to participate in Government if its central policies are adopted.

The party launched its manifesto in Athlone this morning, pledging an additional €1 billion for the farming and fishing sectors, with new supports aimed at recruiting more healthcare staff and gardaí.

It has also pledged to expand light rail services to all 26 counties in rural and urban areas, and to completing the required feasibility study "within the first two years in Government".

Speaking at the launch this morning, party leader Michael Collins said they were "a force to be reckoned with" even if they are only a year old.

He said there is no greater priority than planning reform, and delivering infrastructure to resolve the housing crisis.

The party is also aiming to create a new Department of Efficiency and Reform in order to cut Government waste, improve efficiency in all departments, and deliver value for taxpayers.

Party candidate for Limerick Richard Donohoe said they are trying to bring a business model to Irish politics to ensure there's value of money.

He said that Irish Water is "defunct" and the absence of water and sewerage infrastructure means that the Government cannot end the housing crisis, adding reform is badly needed.

On tax, the party wants to reduce the lower rate of VAT from 11% to 9% in order to help save small businesses and assist the hospitality sector.

The party is also promising to reform the planning system and invest in key infrastructure required to build more housing.

Roscommon-Galway candidate Michael Fitzmaurice said the Taoiseach needs to go to Brussels and demand that the Mercasor trade deal is voted on in EU parliaments.

He warned it could be brought in "through the back door", leading to an unacceptable €2 or €2.50 difference per kilo in prices.