The Government is preparing measures in the upcoming Budget to strengthen enforcement around derelict properties and to improve collection of the vacant-site levy, according to reporting in the Irish Independent. The Tánaiste says local authorities have not done enough to collect the levy, and the proposed changes aim to address gaps in compliance.
Simon Harris, reported as outlining the Budget approach, indicates that Revenue will take a greater role in collecting the vacant-site levy. The move is intended to ensure the levy is applied consistently and that more resources and oversight are brought to the collection process.
In parallel, the Government plans to tighten dereliction rules. While details are not fully set out in the available summary, the direction of travel is described as moving from reliance on councils to a more centralised collection and enforcement model. The overall goal is to increase pressure on owners and improve follow-through by authorities, particularly where vacant or derelict sites are not being addressed effectively.
