Vol. 524 No. 5
251 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Finance the total cost of allowing mortgage interest relief at the standard rate of tax for all dependent children living in homes already eligible for mortgage interest relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23315/00]
I understand the Deputy is referring to the possibility of increasing the mortgage interest ceilings by £500 for each dependent child. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the cost to the Exchequer, estimated by reference to an income tax year based on 2001 incomes, of the changes mentioned by the Deputy would be of the order of £5 million in a full year. This estimate is provisional and is likely to be revised.
