Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

The Minister for Finance should look at the inequities in stamp duty for first time buyers when dealing with his budget and come into the House to attend a debate on the issue. First-time buyers in Dublin are crucified when it comes to paying stamp duty on second-hand houses. Stamp duty should be removed from second-hand homes up to the value of €400,00 for first-time buyers. This approach would recognise the cost of a house for most first-time buyers today.

I would also like the Minister to consider stamp duty on second-hand homes for families moving because they are growing or for work relocation. Such families must pay 9% stamp duty on any house priced over €635,000. The inequity is that a family must pay the same stamp duty on a home of that value as an investor who intends to rent it out. The matter should be addressed.