RADICAL reform of the tax system is the key to solving the problem of youth unemployment, according to Senator John Dardis, chairman of the Progressive Democrats. "A bleak scenario awaits many school leavers who will receive their Leaving Certificate results later this week. Those who do not make it to third level education face an employment market which is severely constrained by the cost to employers of taking new people on," said Mr Dardis.
He said the five different taxes levied on work were the greatest obstacle to the creation of jobs. "The important issue for young people is getting onto the first rung of the employment ladder. They will not be able to do that until our booming economy becomes job friendly."
Mr Dardis estimated 75,000 people under the age of 24 are receiving social welfare. "If we do not create the environment for the free flow of jobs through our economy, we will be sowing the seeds for future social exclusion. Perpetual placement on FAS schemes is not the answer," he added.