Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy will know it is often very difficult to interpret who is genuine and who is not when it comes to complying with the law and the collection of money. When arrears ultimately accumulate it is a regular excuse for people to claim they were not aware of their obligations under the law. It is a difficult one and I understand the Deputy probably has genuine cases in mind and I am obviously taking his constituents as very sound and solid citizens in that regard. However, the strict interpretation of and compliance with the law are matters in the first instance for the owner of the property and the people who are liable for the second or third home as the case may be. I am certainly conscious that there may often be some misinterpretation or different interpretations by local authorities and I will clarify that for the Deputy in so far as I can, but the law is quite straightforward. There is a liability in respect of the second home and a levy of €200 is charged. I have encountered cases in my constituency in which people believed they were genuinely not informed or aware of it even though it is their responsibility to be informed and aware of it. Anyway, we will see what we can do to ensure compliance with the law and collection of the charge in a way that does not bring about greater financial hardship on the individual.

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