I have been informed that no discussions took place between lending institutions and officials from the tax side of the Department in advance of the introduction of the Home Renovation Incentive. In relation to the introduction of lending schemes in this area, I received the following information from the institutions mentioned:
AIB
AIB responded that they already support customers who wish to refurbish, renovate or upgrade their property and, to underpin their commitment in this area, they intend to introduce a lending initiative in response to the introduction of the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme and this will be announced shortly.
PTSB
PTSB have announced a lending scheme in this area as covered in the statement carried in the media as follows: "On November 1st, Permanent tsb announced the allocation of up to €100 million for customers undertaking home improvements and availing of the Government’s budget initiative in this area."