The Jobs Minister Richard Bruton has rejected claims of any difficulties within the government over the Universal Social Charge (USC).

According to Red C research commissioned by Labour, voters want the USC drastically cut or Labour will be annihilated at the election next year.

During the summer, the Tanaiste Joan Burton reportedly made a deal with Taoiseach Enda Kenny after the local elections that the charge would be reformed.

However, Fine Gael have made it clear that their priority is to cut the top rate of income tax instead.

Richard Bruton says it is the government's plan to reduce the tax burden on people.

SIPTU President Jack O'Connor is supporting the abolition of the USC charge.

Last week on the Pat Kenny Show, Finance Minister Michael Noonan said the charge is not likely to be abolished because it takes in too much cash.

The charge brings in over €4.5bn a year, which Mr Noonan says Ireland cannot afford to give up.

The Sunday Independent reports that up to 70,000 people are believed to be gearing up to take part in a mass protest in Dublin this Wednesday over water charges, with the USC expected to be another focus of the demonstration. 

Originally posted at 8.03am