Sir, - Given the shortage of workers in the labour force, I believe Mr McCreevy has not been radical enough with his current tax proposals. I would advocate a tax relief for all children over five years of age who take a job outside the home.
This would have multiple benefits for the economy. It would ease the shortage of labour, finally liberate the stay-at-home mothers, and reduce the demand for children's daycare facilities - not to mention the huge savings in the educational system. Clearly those whinging at the current proposal to skew the tax system against single-income families do not realise what is in their best interests.
The additional revenue generated by the above policy could then be put to a socially desirable use. Perhaps Mr McCreevy might consider introducing some tax relief on betting! - Yours, etc.,
Caroline Caslin, St Helen's Road, Booterstown, Co Dublin.