Some people who have not yet paid the household charge were today sent reminder letters from the council asking them to settle the €100 tax bill.

City Manager Tim Lucey has written to councillors informing them the authority was now in a position to “commence issuing reminders to people who may not have paid the charge”.
Mr Lucey wrote: “Members will be aware that while no comprehensive database exists of those liable to pay the charge, the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 does provide for access to various databases to facilitate collection of the charge.
The Lord Mayor Cllr John Buttimer said the City Manager has the support of the council in following up on those who haven’t paid.
A spokesperson for the Cork Campaign Against Household and Water Taxes urged householders to “hold firm and refuse to be bullied” by the official letters being sent out to houses.
Those who have not paid the charge were urged to “remember that the household tax is just the thin end of the wedge and that today’s €100 charge would rise to €1,000 within a couple of years as the Government follow up with property taxes on the family home and water tax.”
The spokesperson insisted the household tax should be abolished with revenue instead “raised through the introduction of taxes aimed at the super-wealthy elite in Irish society”.
Ted Tynan, one of the six city councillors prepared to go jail over the household charge, said: “I would say to people don’t panic and to stay and be part of this campaign. The amount of people who have not paid this charge are in the majority.”