Marc MacSharry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister and the Minister for Finance put the final touches to the finance Bill, in welcoming many measures in the budget, could I ask that they use this opportunity, as late in the day as it is, to reverse the decision to place a 10% levy on concrete blocks? As a property professional, I can tell the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform that the proposal is counterproductive to the Government's own balance sheet and to our policy to promote housing. In addition, will the Minister also use the opportunity to extend the very welcome €500 tax relief on rental properties to the many parents throughout the country who are paying exorbitant accommodation costs for students? The Minister might take these points on board as the final touches are put to the Finance Bill, as I think the public would greatly welcome them. We are not talking about a huge amount of money , namely, €80 million on the blocks scheme and €500 for our students nationally, who are paying up to €1,300 per month on rent. I am sure the Minister would agree with me that it is needed.

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