Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
237. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his views on the merits of conducting an overall assessment of the existing local property tax scheme to create a more equitable system based on ability to pay rather than property value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69082/25]
View answerLocal Property Tax (LPT) was legislated for in 2012 in the Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012. On the introduction of the LPT, the Government decided that a liability to the tax should apply to all owners of residential properties with a limited number of exemptions. Limiting the exemptions available allows the rate to be kept low for those liable persons who do not qualify for an exemption.
The design of LPT was considered by an interdepartmental group chaired by Dr. Don Thornhill. As part of their terms of reference, the group were asked to “consider the design of a property tax to replace the household charge and that is equitable and is informed by previous work and international experience.”
In considering the equity of a property tax, the report of the group noted that owners of more valuable properties would pay more under a market value-based tax. The report noted this was equitable to the extent that market value provides a measure of the value of a residential property to the owner, particularly in terms of its proximity to places of work and local amenities and facilities.
Furthermore, in 2019, an interdepartmental group also conducted a review of LPT. Their report noted that, when viewed as a capital tax, property tax can be considered progressive since capital tends to be more heavily concentrated in the hands of higher income earners. It also noted that taxes that are based on incomes tend to bring about behavioural change. In contrast, property taxes apply to a base that is largely immovable and broadens the tax base.
Any property owners experiencing difficulties can avail of a wide range of flexible payment options both in respect of their LPT liabilities and for any previous years where liabilities remain outstanding. The full range of payment options, which includes phased arrangements, are available to property owners on the Revenue website at: www.revenue.ie/en/property/local-property-tax/paying-your-lpt/index.aspx
For these reasons, it is my view that a property tax system that is calculated on the basis of property value, with supports in place for those who need assistance, is appropriate and fair.
