Tax Relief For Graduates Proposed

Fine Gael has called for the introduction of income tax relief for Graduate Entry Medical Students, a move the party claims will help keep them in Ireland.

Cork North Central Senator and Seanad Spokesperson on Health, Colm Burke, has made a submission to the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, proposing the new measure.

"As a direct result of the implementation of the European Working Time Directive, it is going to be more difficult to retain junior doctors (NCHDs), who are so crucial to the smooth running of our health service. Each NCHD is now working less hours, resulting in a considerable reduction in their income," Deputy Burke said.

"Much like entrepreneurs starting a new business, these young students are making an investment in order that they can provide an essential service. Business people are allowed to write off the interest on monies borrowed in setting up their business, against income received. The same rules should apply to students under the Graduate Entry Medicine programme who have to make such a significant monetary outlay at the start of their careers."

Burke added that the introduction of income tax relief would make a "huge difference" to them and make it "far easier to encourage them to remain here in Ireland where they are needed".

"I have made a detailed submission to the Minister for Finance asking him to consider such a move," he concluded.

(MH/JP)