Senator calls for extension of development levy waiver

Senator Erin McGreehan has called for the Government to extend the Waiver scheme for Development levies. The Temporary Development Contribution Waiver Scheme applied for one year to all permitted residential development that commences on site between 25 April 2023 and 24 April 2024, and is completed not later than 31 December 2025.

The waiver is now due to cease for new properties in a months’ time, and Senator McGreehan believes that extending the Waiver Scheme, “is necessary” and that the Department should announce the extension soon”.

The government had announced the extension of the Waiver Scheme for Development Levies In a move to support the construction industry and promote affordable housing. The scheme exempted builders of new-build homes from paying development levies if the commencement of on-site work began between 25 April 2023 and 24 April 2024.

Senator McGreehan noted that In Louth it was agreed last year to increase the contribution to €11,646 euro per housing unit and a commercial rate of €90 per square metre towards public infrastructure.

At the time, she criticised

Louth County Council’s decision saying it was too large and was prohibitive for many people. If the waiver is not extended there would be an extra €11,646 cost on each housing unit in Louth.

McGreehan raised this issue in the Seanad last week, asking that the waiver scheme be extended beyond 24th April.

“The extension of this waiver scheme would be very welcome, it would come at a crucial time when the construction sector is facing various challenges, including rising costs. By allowing builders to forgo development levies, the government could support development of multiple builds and one-off rural housing. The Government need to do this in order to cushion the huge cost of living increases. It would incentivise construction activity, and also and most importantly really support people getting a home”.

According to Senator McGreehan this issue has been raised by many in the parliamentary party with Minister Darragh OBrien and Tanaite Micheál Martin.

She hopes that a “positive announcement will be coming in the weeks ahead”.