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

It is important to be clear on the possible costs of this. I have outlined what the cost was in 2008. The most recent data, from the end of June, indicate there are currently 720,000 mortgage accounts with an average outstanding balance of €137,100 at an interest rate of 2.5%. Assuming mortgage interest relief was granted at a rate of 20% on the average interest payment, such a reintroduction would cost in the region of €500 million per annum.

In seeking to understand the background to the Deputy's proposal, I sought the budget proposals Sinn Féin published before budget day but they have been removed from the Sinn Féin website and are no longer available. The Sinn Féin alternative budget for 2022 is available but that for 2023 is no longer on the website. Will the Deputy explain to the House why that is the case?

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