Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am happy to agree to the principle of what Senators are proposing but I cannot agree to this particular recommendation, which relates to a timely matter. I fully agree with their analysis of the issues. In my constituency of Dublin Central, I represent many people who live in rental accommodation that is old and has not seen the investment that is needed not only to make it fit for the future as we battle with climate change but also to keep it warm as temperatures get colder at different points of the year. That is the reason a measure like this can play a valuable role. It is why I brought it forward on Committee Stage in the Dáil.

The main reason I cannot accept this recommendation is that the information the Senators are looking for will not be available on 1 July 2023 because the relief will not be claimed until landlords file their income tax returns for 2024. The information the Senators are seeking will be collected by the Department on an annual basis and that will facilitate the analysis they are requesting.