Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
244. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the timeframe for the introduction of the new derelict property tax; the way in which this data will be collected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65834/25]
View answerIn Budget 2026, it was announced that a new Derelict Property Tax (DPT) would be introduced. The aim of this tax is to encourage the activation of derelict properties and sites. It will replace the Derelict Sites Levy and will be collected by the Revenue Commissioners.
In order for the new tax to be successful on introduction, care must be taken in its design. A key issue is that the tax must apply in a consistent manner to all residential properties and sites that are derelict. Therefore, a lead-in time will be required for local authorities to identify all the relevant derelict properties in their area for inclusion on a register in a consistent manner.
I intend to legislate for the DPT in 2026. This is dependent on engagement from stakeholders and will also be influenced by any advice I receive from the Attorney General. This timeline is necessary to allow local authorities to prepare and publish a preliminary register of derelict properties in 2027, with the tax coming into effect as quickly as possible thereafter.
Replacing the existing levy with a new tax will be a complex process. There is much detail that remains to be worked through in relation to the operation of the tax, including the way in which the data will be collected. I will be in a position to provide further information next year, in advance of the tax being legislated for.
