Gabhaim buíochas leis an gCathaoirleach Gníomhach. Since its inception two years ago, the rent tax credit has provided significant assistance to people who are renting. Can the Minister give an indication on the take-up of that credit, particularly with regard to County Kildare, and also County Cork if he has those data available? As the rent tax credit was recently increased at the last budget, can he give an indication whether the increased value of that credit has increased its take-up?

Sentiment score: 0.45

I appreciate that the Cork figures may not be as readily to hand. I look forward to reviewing them later. The credit has been a real support for many people who are renting and it is easing some of the burden. We have included in the programme for Government that there would be further improvement on the credit. I am trying to get an understanding on any engagement or discussions the Minister has had up to now on making improvements and enhancing it, be that through doing it over five budgets or in one or two of the earlier budgets. Can the Minister provide any indication or discussion he has had in this regard? It has been a valuable relief for many renters both last year and the year before that. I wish to ensure that this commitment is grown upon.

Sentiment score: 0.51

Is mór an cabhair é an faoiseamh cánach dóibh siúd atá ag tógáil áit chónaithe ar cíos. Tá sé mar chuid den chlár Rialtais amach romhainn go gcuirfí leis seo agus go gcuirfí breis cabhrach ar fáil do dhaoine. An bhféadfadh an tAire insint dúinn cén plean nó comhrá a bhí aige go dtí seo ar conas é sin a leathnú amach agus forbairt a dhéanamh air? The programme for Government also commits to helping renters who are seeking to become home buyers with a series of targeted measures, both in the tax system and in the first home scheme, for example. While I appreciate it is early, has the Minister had any discussions up to now with regard to the tax changes in that area? Can he give us a sense as to how he sees that being rolled out in the years and budgets ahead?

Sentiment score: 0.03