Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 263: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to address the issues raised in correspondence of 4 July 2006 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36680/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they do not have any record of receipt of the letter of 4 July 2006, a copy of which was supplied with the question. I am also advised by the Revenue Commissioners that rent relief claims, in accordance with section 473, of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, were received in Sligo District for the person in question on 14 February 2006. The rent relief claims related to the tax years 2002 to 2005 inclusive and, on the basis of the information furnished in the letter accompanying the claims, it was understood that tax relief at source for home loan interest had been granted. Since simultaneous claims for rent relief and home loan interest cannot be allowed, a letter in response to the claims was issued on 24 February 2006 advising the person that the rent relief claims would not be allowed.

On a review of the position it has emerged that the person in question has not received, and may not have claimed, tax relief in respect of home loan interest. Accordingly, Sligo District is arranging to contact the person in question to clarify the position as to what, if any, tax relief is due in respect of home loan interest or rent paid.