Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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I have an issue with the Minister's suggestion that this is a technical amendment. I would argue that it is a substantive change, regardless of whether that is what was originally intended. The existing section within the legislation would mean that this would only apply in the case of a contractor who was proposing to build new-builds and thereby increase supply. This amendment will change that by including a reference to proposals to offer existing stock "for sale". Existing housing will now come under the remit of this section and will therefore be deemed as qualifying premises or residences for tax rebate purposes. If the Government was not proposing this significant change, qualifying persons would be able to get tax rebates in respect of newly-constructed houses or apartments only.