Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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36. To ask the Minister for Finance the discussions he has had with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government in relation to simplifying the criteria for the way a homeowner can acquire an exemption to the local property tax as a result of having significant pyritic damage, a commitment which he gave during discussions on the Finance Bill 2014. [4698/15]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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As I previously advised the Deputy, officials of my Department, together with officials of the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government, are examining the alternatives other than testing that may be available in order to confirm entitlement to a Local Property Tax (LPT) exemption. 

My officials continue to examine this issue and how it can be resolved satisfactorily. That may necessitate a change in the relevant provisions of the Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012 (as amended) and/or the Finance (Local Property Tax) (Pyrite Exemption) Regulations. When I have made my decision I will communicate it to the Deputy immediately. If it is the case that legislative change is required, I will examine with the Revenue Commissioners the possibilities for applying any changes on an administrative basis, in advance of such legislative changes.

I am conscious that the issue to which the Deputy refers needs to be addressed.  I want to reassure her, and homeowners affected, that the situation is receiving attention, and I thank her for bringing the issue to my attention again.