asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the total poor law valuation of buildings in Éire in 1947 and 1951 and if he will explain the cause of the increase.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increase in Valuations.
The total rateable valuations of buildings as at 1st March, 1947, and 1st March, 1951, were £5,143,486 and £5,883,731, respectively.
The increase in the total is due mainly to valuations of new buildings. Higher valuations of existing buildings, partially offset by the deletion of the valuations of buildings found to be in ruinous condition and by reductions in the valuations of buildings reduced in value, contributed to the increase.
Is the Minister aware that a considerable portion of this increase in total valuation is in respect of farm buildings and rateable property that were improved?
I am afraid I could not accept that because, after all, we cannot shut our eyes to the fact that thousands and thousands of new buildings are being provided in the country year after year. I would hope that, before the end of this session, we should reach the Deputy's motion when we could discuss this matter more fully.