Tax Code.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2006

Tuesday, 16 May 2006

Ceisteanna (173)

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

226 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the threshold at which the 9 per cent rate of stamp duty on non-residential property comes into effect; the value of this threshold as it applied in 1995, in the year 2000 and to date in 2006; and his views on whether, further to the significant moves in property values, there is a need to review the threshold at which stamp duty becomes applicable to business premises in view of the considerable obstacles it presents to new business establishment and expansion. [18086/06]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

At present a 9 per cent rate of Stamp Duty applies on non-residential property exceeding €150,000. A 6 per cent rate applies on non-residential property exceeding €80,000 and not exceeding €100,000.

The maximum rate of duty in 1995 and 2000 was 6% and applied to properties exceeding €76,200 (£60,000).

The approximate current equivalent value of these thresholds adjusted for CPI at Budget Day 2006 is: 1995 — €93,020; and 2000 — €105,444.

Amendments to the existing stamp duty regime must be approached with caution as even minor amendments may alter the dynamics of the property market. The matter is kept under review and where changes are needed, they will be dealt with appropriately.