Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

I fully appreciate what the Deputy is saying and I fully agree with him. When I first looked at this issue I was dismayed at the slow pace of progress. Part of the problem is that it is difficult to undertake any valuation when property prices are in total flux, as has been the case in recent years. The competitiveness issue the Deputy has highlighted is a significant problem throughout the State. That type of competitive imbalance on the basis of simple geography should not arise.

Upon assuming office, I was concerned at the time envisaged for the completion of the full revaluation of the country which, if we did not make any changes, was scheduled to reach completion as late as 2018. It is for this reason that I am introducing legislation and considering other measures such as self-valuation - with appropriate safeguards - and outsourcing. I hope to be in a position to bring concrete proposals to Government this term.

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