New property tax sparks irish protests

A new property tax in Ireland has sparked a mass protest this week, as the country's economy continues to battle extensive levels of debt.

The 1.65 million homeowners were supposed to register to pay the new levy last weekend, reports NPR, but "by the time the deadline expired... only about half had done so."

Responding to the annual fee of €100, which applies equally to the rich residents as well as the poor, the public outcry demanded a fairer scheme that would see bankers, politicians and other wealthy homeowners (largely attributed with the collapse of the economy) foot a bigger bill than the rest.

"Can't Pay, Won't Pay" and "When The Bankers Pay, We'll Pay!" read the placards wielded by the thousands of demonstrators.

In the run-up to Ireland's May referendum on the European Union's new fiscal pact, the government has refused to extend the registration deadline and is issuing penalty Fines to any late payers.