{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/67c5d757b48a8f157c1f9076/6a0ed177d7997e788c430c92?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Concerns Raised as Cemetery Bye-Laws Adopted in Meath - 21/05/2026","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/67c5d757b48a8f157c1f9076/1779355536586-f89a506d-b92a-4d4a-8b58-0986f80110c6.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>We are turning our attention now to calls by local councillors in Louth for the abolition of the Universal Social Charge.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Introduced during the financial crisis as a temporary measure, the USC has remained in place for more than a decade — but now Ciaran Fisher and a number of Independent councillors across the country are calling on the Government to scrap it altogether.</p><p><br></p><p>A motion passed at this month’s meeting of Louth County Council is urging the Minister for Finance, the Taoiseach and local TDs to outline a clear timeline for the removal of the charge, with critics arguing it has effectively become a permanent second income tax on workers.</p><p><br></p><p>We were joined on The Agenda this morning by Independent councillor in Dundalk, Ciaran Fisher, who told us why he believes the USC has outlived its purpose and why he says now is the time to axe it</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"lmfm "}