Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
228. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance whether revenue collected through the newly announced vacant site levy, which will be administered by the Revenue Commissioners, will go to local authorities or to the central fund. [46843/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Derelict Property Tax (DPT), which I take the Deputy to be referring to, is intended to encourage the activation of derelict properties and sites. The planned introduction of this tax was announced in last year’s Budget. 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 allows for the tax to be brought in quickly and without delay. It also provides an annual opportunity to amend the tax, if required, following its introduction. For these reasons, it is my view that the Finance Bill is the most appropriate vehicle to introduce DPT. As with the majority of taxes, the proceeds of the tax must accrue to the Central Fund.
The administration of DPT will require local authorities to identify derelict properties located in their respective areas.
Once the DPT 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.
