Petitioner Expresses “Disappointment” Regarding Pension Tax Debate

The individual who organized a petition concerning the taxation of islanders’ pensions expressed that he was “disappointed” with how a discussion on the matter unfolded in the States. This petition initiated a debate because it garnered signatures from more than 5,000 individuals. It asserted that the existing framework constitutes “double taxation” for people once they attain pensionable age. States Members discussed the subject on Wednesday. Paul Troalic, the petition’s organizer, stated: “I knew there wouldn’t be a vote but I was optimistic that at least we would have a sensible debate in which people would be interested in giving their views,” he commented. The petition contended that the tax was unjust because pensioners would have already contributed tax on their earnings throughout their working lives. Since pensions are also subject to taxation upon reaching pensionable age, the petition argued this represents “double taxation”. Mr Troalic indicated that the concerns regarding double taxation and assertions of a 26% net pay “were not really addressed properly” during the discussion. He mentioned that members “skirted around the issue” by acknowledging that certain islanders were “a little bit hard done by”. He added that the living wage “was more of the issue” during the debate, “rather than actually addressing the points that I had made in the petition”. Mr Traolic observed that “less than half” of the approximately 45 members in attendance participated in the discussion, stating this “which from my point of view is quite disappointing”. He explained that his primary motivation was for “pensioners to get a good deal” and expressed his hope that deputy Barbara Ward, who submitted the petition to the States, “still has an appetite to pursue it it further”. Readers can follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Story ideas can be sent to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material on external sites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.