Ivor Callely
Question:52 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Finance the consideration, if any, given to abolishing the residential property tax in preparation of the 1996 budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2460/96]
Written Answers. - Residential Property Tax Abolition.
The programme, A Government of Renewal, indicated that the future of residential property tax would be considered in the context of a professional study of local Government financing which is at present being undertaken by my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Deputy Brendan Howlin.
A steering committee made up of representatives from the Departments of Environment and Finance has been set up to oversee the professional study which is being carried out in two stages. A team of consultants was appointed in July 1995 to carry out stage 1 involving a review of existing literature, arrangements in other countries, taking submissions and highlighting viable options. A report of the findings of stage 1 will form the basis for the stage 2 study to commence. It is expected that the professional study will conclude with the publication of a White Paper later this year.
I will evaluate all aspects of residential property tax in light of the findings of the study when completed.