Inclusion of proposal to assist disabled people with property tax most welcome – Lawlor

Fine Gael TD for Kildare North, Anthony Lawlor, was delighted to learn today (Wednesday) on publication of the Finance Bill that a suggestion made by him last week to the Minster for Finance, Michael Noonan TD, that special exemptions for the property tax should apply to homes which have been adapted for disabled persons was accepted. 

“Last week, I tabled a Parliamentary Question to Minister Noonan about the possibility of disregarding works which have been undertaken to extend or improve a home to facilitate the physical requirements of disabled in the overall valuation of a home for the property tax. I firmly believe that disabled people should not be penalised by paying a higher rate of property tax due an increase in the value of their home as a result of necessary works because of their disability.

“I was delighted to learn today that my suggestion to disregard the works has been considered and included in the Bill. I would like to thank the Minister for taking a practical approach in this regard and recognising that disabled persons should not be penalised. 

“Today’s announcement by Minister Noonan highlights the Government’s continuing efforts to support disabled people and their families.” 

ENDS