Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 April 2026
270. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his views on the impact that the new derelict property tax will have on housing numbers; the benefits that will be seen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26146/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 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.
I intend to legislate for DPT as part of Finance Bill 2026. This is dependent on engagement from stakeholders and will also be influenced by any advice I receive from the Attorney General.
In order for the tax to be effective, it must apply in a consistent manner to all residential properties that are derelict. Local authorities need time and resources to identify properties in their areas so that preliminary registers of dereliction can be published in 2027. The DPT will be implemented as soon as possible after the preliminary registers are published.
Officials in my Department are engaging on an ongoing basis with Revenue and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the design of this new tax. The impact that DPT will have on housing numbers will depend how this tax is ultimately designed, how many derelict properties are identified by local authorities next year and how owners choose to respond.
Once the Derelict Property Tax is operational, I am confident that many owners of derelict properties will be incentivised to take action to bring these homes back into use and ultimately contribute to our housing stock. The behavioural effect of the tax will also contribute to regeneration and development, breathing new life into our villages, towns and cities.
