Madam, - While the current financial crisis calls for belt-tightening all round, there is one group which deserves particular attention. I am referring to that élite cadre of extremely wealthy, high-profile people who have chosen not to pay Irish taxes by using the flimsy tax loophole of so-called non-residency. The taxes that these few individuals should have paid over the past few years would go a long way towards reducing our revenue shortfalls.
We treat these people like princes of industry instead of enemies of the State. In complete contrast, the US treats tax exiles in a more appropriate way: it takes their passports and tells them not to come back. As a taxpayer I resent the liberties that are being taken by these select few and I believe this is the time to put a stop to this unacceptable practice. - Yours, etc,
RONAN GAYNOR,
St Gabriel's,
Cabinteely,
Dublin 18.