Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will briefly note I did not actually get an answer - I might not get it now and that is fine - in respect of those people whose property tax has decreased and the statements that were made. This is when we are into the midpoint in valuations. We have been told that due to the change in the midpoint of valuations, we are maintaining progressivity. However, I am concerned that, for example, as I mentioned, the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, and others told us that those with properties of €1.6 million will potentially be paying less. I am concerned about that 11% decrease for those who have the decreased rate. How many of them are in those higher bands? That was a question I asked but on which I did not get an answer during the Second Stage debate. I obviously cannot table any amendments to it because they would be out of order automatically. I believe, however, the principle of progressivity within our taxation system is really important and in terms of any revisions of our taxation system. Of course, under the sustainable development goals, it is required that any new policies we bring forward are progressive and reflect that. I am, therefore, concerned in terms of the decreases in property tax and how much of that is concentrated in the higher level. I know it is not all there but that was my question.