John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I move recommendation No. 3:

In page 13, before section 6, to insert the following new section:

"6.—As respects the year of assessment 2005 and subsequent years of assessment section 473 of the Principal Act is amended by substituting—

(a) '€5,080' for '€2,540'

(b) '€10,160' for '€5,080' and

(c) '€2,540' for '€1,270',

wherever same shall occur.".

This recommendation relates to the private rented sector. Figures from the Revenue Commissioners indicate that approximately 40,000 people are claiming relief under the rent relief scheme. However, figures from auctioneering representatives indicate that approximately 100,000 people are renting in the private sector. It is clear that the scheme could be self-financing if more people availed of it. This amendment seeks to highlight the fact that it would be economically beneficial to Revenue if there was a better uptake on the scheme.