Sinn Féin Senator and local first responder, Maria McCormack, is calling for urgent action to address the issue of taxing first responder vehicles.
She said that the proposal by Revenue to impose tax on these vehicles, which are often taken home by first responders after their shifts, could have dangerous consequences for local communities.
Currently, many ambulance drivers and first responders take their vehicles home after work as part of an informal on-call arrangement, ensuring they are ready to respond to emergencies in their local area without delay.
This practice is essential to maintaining rapid response times for emergencies, potentially saving lives in critical situations.
However, under the proposed review by Revenue, these vehicles are under scrutiny for being used for personal errands, potentially leading to a tax levy.
Senator McCormack said: “For the sake of a few euros, people could miss out on a rapid response that could save their life.
“The men and women serving in these roles work tirelessly, often taking these vehicles home and remaining on call, unpaid, for the safety of their communities.
“To penalise them for this, especially when they’re not using the vehicle for personal errands, is utterly unacceptable.
“The priority should be to support first responders in maintaining their crucial on-call availability. These vehicles are not used for shopping or personal trips.
“If an emergency arises, I guarantee that the first responder will be ready to act. As a first responder myself, I know firsthand the dedication required to keep people safe.
”This move by Revenue is yet another attack on our hardworking health professionals, who are already stretched thin due to a lack of resources and funding.
“I am calling on both Revenue and the government to reassess this proposed tax and to implement a commonsense solution that allows first responders to continue serving their communities effectively and without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
“I am committed to ensuring that essential emergency services are not compromised, and that the needs of local communities remain the top priority.”
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