Brian Walsh (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Question 146: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will consider the reintroduction of a stamp duty exemption for first-time buyers; if he considers that the reintroduction of a first-time buyers grant would assist in dealing with the problem of unsold housing stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15503/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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Budget 2011 reduced the Stamp Duty rate on residential property purchases while abolishing some reliefs and exemptions. This was done to help broaden the tax base and lower the rate of stamp duty for most purchasers. All purchasers of residential property under €1 million in value are now only liable for stamp duty at 1%. I have no plans at this time to reintroduce first time buyer relief.

The issue of first time buyer grants is a matter for the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government.