Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

Fianna Fáil supports the Bill, which will provide for a new method of calculating the local property tax liabilities in advance of the new valuation period set to commence in 2026. The proposed changes to local property tax will mean that most homeowners will remain in their present valuation bands, which is to be welcomed. Base local property tax charges will increase a small amount in proportion to property values. A small number of properties will pay a larger amount than before, either as a result of moving valuation band or due to their existing high value.

What I am most pleased about in this particular proposal is that the next valuation period will last for a period of five years. This will give certainty to homeowners throughout the country, including in my constituency of Carlow-Kilkenny. The income thresholds for deferral of local property tax will be adjusted to account for inflation, wage growth and increases in State payments since 2021. This decision follows a recommendation made by the 2019 review group on local property tax. The existing thresholds will increase by between 30% and 40%, depending on personal status and whether the threshold is in respect of full or partial deferral. Additionally, a change has been made to the local adjustment factor, which allows local authorities to vary the amount of local property tax collected in their area.

I listened to previous speakers, particularly Sinn Féin Members on the Opposition benches. Sinn Féin has opposed property tax every single year since its inception. I note that Sinn Féin is very heavily represented on the Opposition benches this evening because it cares so much about the local property tax-----

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