Government to Introduce New Derelict Property Tax After Councils Fail on Levy

Tánaiste Simon Harris announced the Government will introduce a new derelict property tax, to be collected by Revenue, replacing the current levy. This decision stems from the Government's frustration with local authorities, which Harris stated have «badly failed» to administer the existing 7% levy on derelict properties, despite receiving additional staff and funding.

Harris will bring a memo to Cabinet on Tuesday outlining proposals for the new self-assessed tax, initially targeting cities and towns at a rate of at least 7%. Penalties for non-compliance will apply. He urged owners of derelict properties to utilize grants or compulsory purchase orders, warning them to either restore properties to use or face a «hefty tax».