Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 20 Feb 2002

Vol. 549 No. 1

Written Answers. - Mortgage Interest Relief.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

142 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if he has an estimate of the number of people who have yet to claim their entitlement to mortgage interest relief following the recent change over to deductions from source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5922/02]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I understand from the Revenue Commissioners that there are now 434,000 qualifying mortgage loans registered for tax relief at source. While it is difficult to give a precise number, Revenue estimate this represents about 97% of those entitled to claim the relief, leaving about 13,400 who have yet to submit claims.

Revenue has indicated there was a very positive response to its information campaign in relation to the new relief at source arrangements. It is still operating a help line for enquiries concerning the new scheme. The tax relief at source helpline number is 1890 463626 and the hours of operation are 9.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.