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

I completely reject any claims that the information and guidance my officials prepare for me is in any way massaged or in any way excludes important information that I need to make decisions. I receive full, impartial and comprehensive input and advice from my officials on this and every other matter. The information notes I receive and the evaluations that are given to me are part of how that guidance is provided to me. I have had ongoing engagement with my officials on this matter and they have provided me with comprehensive briefings on this and other issues. I repeat that I reject any claim that the information provided to me is in any way massaged or presents anything less than a full picture of this issue.

I will say again that the impact we are making at the moment, although we know we need to do more, is that 31,000 homes were commenced over the past 12 months. I have outlined to the House how we will deal with this issue and make the design choices on the vacant property tax.

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