Pope Francis met with members of Italy's tax collection agency at the Vatican
He acknowledged that the role of tax workers is not fully appreciated in society, and that their work is essential in advancing the public good.
POPE FRANCIS
'Your work is underappreciated in the eyes of a society that places private property at the center as an absolute and fails to subordinate it to the style of communion and sharing for the good of all.'
As the pandemic continues to affect daily life in Italy, the Pope urged officials to not do away with Italy's healthcare system, which is publicly funded.
POPE FRANCIS
'Please, continue the free health care system, please! This comes from the treasury. Defend it. Because we should not fall into a paid health care system, where the poor do not have a right to anything. This is one of the beautiful things that Italy has, please, conserve it.'
The Pope said that sound tax practices are based in three principles: legality, impartiality, and transparency.
POPE FRANCIS
'Transparency in the management of money, which comes from the sacrifices of many working men and women, reveals a freedom of mind and makes people more motivated to pay taxes, especially if tax collection helps to overcome inequality.'
Pope Francis recalled that taxes have been a necessary component of human society since ancient times, and are a reminder of the duty each individual has to one other.
JM
