asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that valuations on houses have been increased following improvements in cases where the valuer does not visit the house or call into the house; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Valuation Revisions.
36.
I am advised by the Commissioner of Valuation that it is a feature of the work of a valuer that before altering the valuation following improvements or other alterations he first inspects the property. But it is not necessary in self-evident cases for the purpose of revising a valuation to gain access to the premises. Whenever information additional to that which may be obtained by observation is necessary, the valuer interviews the occupier. On occasion this is not always possible as the occupier may not be available.
Is the Minister aware that there are numerous cases throughout the country where valuations were increased following minor reconstruction works and owners and occupiers are in doubt whether the valuer was even in the vicinity?
From many years experience, even outside this House, I am aware that such occasions can arise. I am sure the Deputy would accept that there are some self-evident cases, such as the addition of a bedroom, a garage and so on, which does not require a physical examination by a valuer, if he has the dimensions and details of the property. Wherever cases arise which require individual inspection, the valuer endeavours to carry out such inspections.
Would the Minister not agree that the internal condition of the house could have an important bearing on the valuation on revision?
It might in certain circumstances be relevant, but the internal condition of a house does not normally fall for inspection in connection with a valuation. If the nature of the use of the premises has been changed, converted from a single dwelling to a multiple dwelling, obviously an inspection would be desirable to determine the nature and extent of a conversion.
Is it the Minister's intention to make a statement to the House on the report of the Adjudication Committee of the Employer/ Labour Conference?
This does not arise out of this——
I know, but it was my intention to raise this question at the end of Question Time. I have had some indication that the Minister intends to do so and I would appreciate some notice if this is so.
I will communicate with the Deputy.
Am I to take it that the Minister does not intend to do so at 4 p.m.
The Deputy may. I will communicate with the Deputy if, and when, I am in a position to do so.
May I take it that the Minister will make such a statement before the House adjourns?
I will communicate with the Deputy.
Is the Minister aware that the Government Whip has just indicated that the Minister proposes to make that statement at 4 o'clock?
That is not so. I was not aware that the Leader of the Opposition was going to cross-examine the Minister before I got a chance to talk to him.
This is Question Time.
I am in the hands of the Parliamentary Secretary, and if he thinks that is wrong——
(Interruptions.)
Question No. 37.