Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When we talk about statistics and 38,500 people benefiting from the scheme, I know many of them personally, as I am sure the Deputy does. Without the help-to-buy scheme, the truth is many of those people would not have been able to buy a home. That is the reality. I support the decision made by my predecessor that the extension of the scheme to 2024 provides certainty. We need as much certainty as possible in the housing market, first, for developers so they are aware of what the environment in which they are developing is. We then need to assist with affordability and assist first-time buyers in purchasing a home.

There have been different forms of support down the years to help first-time buyers to purchase a property. This scheme has proven to be effective. I am well aware it has its critics but I will be very clear that the decision made to extend it to the end of 2024 is one I support and stand by. We will honour that. Of course, we always keep taxation matters under review. The future of the scheme beyond 2024 is something I will consider in future budgets.

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