Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

It has been cited in response to parliamentary questions. Perhaps the Minister might consider that point.

The Minister dodged the question on the dual abode allowance by referring to overnight rates. This allowance allows for a Revenue write-off in respect of a percentage of the interest paid on the purchase of a second property or vouched elements in respect of the maintenance and so on, of a second property. There is a world of difference between public moneys legitimately covering accommodation in a hotel or a bed and breakfast or whatever, as against public moneys being a contribution to the purchase of a second residence or, for that matter, the maintenance and upkeep of that second residence. I put it to the Minister once more that this dual abode allowance is yet another of those that should be abolished.

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