Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 February 2015
36. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Finance the discussions he has had with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in relation to simplifying the criteria for the way a home owner can acquire an exemption to the local property tax as a result of having significant pyritic damage, a commitment which he gave during discussions on the Finance Bill 2014. [4698/15]
View answerAs I previously advised the Deputy, officials of my Department, together with officials of the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government, are examining the alternatives other than testing that may be available in order to confirm entitlement to a Local Property Tax (LPT) exemption.
My officials continue to examine this issue and how it can be resolved satisfactorily. That may necessitate a change in the relevant provisions of the Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012 (as amended) and/or the Finance (Local Property Tax) (Pyrite Exemption) Regulations. When I have made my decision I will communicate it to the Deputy immediately. If it is the case that legislative change is required, I will examine with the Revenue Commissioners the possibilities for applying any changes on an administrative basis, in advance of such legislative changes.
I am conscious that the issue to which the Deputy refers needs to be addressed. I want to reassure her, and homeowners affected, that the situation is receiving attention, and I thank her for bringing the issue to my attention again.
