Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 464: To ask the Minister for Finance the reason persons are not allowed to use income derived from renting to make a contribution towards their pension fund; and if the review of tax reliefs which he has undertaken has resulted in any recommendations for change in this respect. [24336/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Tax relief for pension contributions is available only against earned income. The purpose of tax relief for pension contributions is to encourage employees and the self-employed to provide for a pension in their retirement when their earnings cease. Income derived from renting is treated as a separate category in the taxation code and is subject to special rules. Rental income is investment income as opposed to earned income. The cessation of income at retirement age does not arise in the case of rental income which can continue throughout a person's life. This matter is not being specifically examined in the review of various tax reliefs which is at present under way.