Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree that we need to look at how we can reform the operation of the equalisation fund. I also believe that over time, we should look to increase the amount of revenue raised in a particular area and local authority that is spent in the area in which it is raised. On the cost of doing that, based the work I did on the local property tax report a number of months ago, I can say that the additional cost to the Exchequer would be anywhere between €80 million and €110 million so there is a significant cost involved. It is not the case that any knowledge regarding winners or losers is being deferred to any point in the future. I have published all of the potential beneficiaries and those who will lose out from any of the different changes that could be considered by the Dáil. All that information is in the public domain. I have provided clarity not only to local authorities but to local property tax bill payers regarding what their liabilities will be for the next year. We have also provided all the information the local authorities need to be able to conclude their work regarding their budgets. However, I take the Deputy's point that reform and change in the equalisation fund in the future will be a very important part of ensuring that the local property tax continues to be legitimate and that it can play a more significant role in the future in meeting local needs.

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