I welcome the decision by Government to extend of the Waiver for the development Levy and a water connection rebate for housing.

The waiver and rebate scheme were introduced last May for a 12-month period and has proven to be a good cost saving measure for buyers of homes especially first-time buyers.
“We have seen the rapid increase in construction inflation and this measure is essential to help the hard-pressed purchaser of a new home.

I am also satisfied that the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant which I along with the Regional Group of Independent TDs introduced to Government, is beginning to gain momentum and the Local Authorities are now cranking up approvals which can provide up to between €50,000.00 and €70,000.00 for the refurbishment of properties which are vacant for more the two years.

I am also asking Government to consider the introduction of a VAT Refund scheme for first time buyers of houses to assist with the rising costs and create the environment for people to get onto the property ladder”.