John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

The matters referred to by Deputy Terence Flanagan will be dealt with by the Minister for Finance in the forthcoming Finance Bill. In the context of the White Paper, we are examining further initiatives for extending the revenue base of local authorities, which is what the tax on second homes is all about. I hope Deputies in the Labour Party see this as an equitable and progressive measure. Clearly it is aimed at those who have the money to have a second, third or fourth property.

Deputy Lynch referred to strategic policy committees. I was delighted to launch the policing committees, which has enhanced local government. Local authority members want an input. I will take on board the Deputy's suggestion, and what Deputy Tuffy suggested, which will be dealt with in the White Paper.

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