Dublin City Council Votes to Hike Property Tax by 15% NOW

UPDATE: Dublin City Council has just voted to increase the Local Property Tax (LPT) by a substantial 15%, a decision that will remain in effect until 2029. This significant change comes as the council aims to restore the tax to its base rate for the rest of the council term, a shift from its previous trend of reducing it to the maximum allowable amount.

This decision has immediate implications for Dublin residents, with some households facing potential hikes of up to 34% due to the combination of this tax increase and a nationwide re-evaluation of LPT bands set to occur in November 2023. Labour Councillor Darragh Moriarty emphasized the need for this increase, claiming it will generate an additional €65 million in funding for essential city services and infrastructure improvements.

“This is a progressive decision that puts Dubliners first,” Cllr. Moriarty stated. “The extra €65 million will be put to real use, particularly in improving standards in our social housing and addressing chronic issues like vacancy and dereliction. Families in my area live in unacceptable conditions, and this funding will help us tackle those problems directly.”

Moriarty also announced plans to establish a revolving fund aimed at addressing the issues of vacancy and dereliction within the city. He pointed out that it is senseless for buildings to remain empty while residents struggle to find adequate housing. “With this new fund, we can take real action—bringing homes and spaces back into use,” he added.

In a surprising turn, the proposal from the opposition party, Sinn Féin, to cut the LPT by the maximum allowable amount was defeated. Sinn Féin group leader, Cllr. Daithí Doolan, criticized the decision, labeling the coalition of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the Green Party, Labour Party, and Social Democrats as an “unholy alliance” that has neglected the needs of Dublin families.

“This increase will place an additional burden on households already struggling to make ends meet,” Doolan stated. He vowed that Sinn Féin would continue to fight against what they deem an unfair tax that does not consider income or ability to pay.

As Dublin residents brace for the effects of this tax hike, the council’s decision highlights the balancing act between generating necessary revenue for public services and the financial strain on everyday citizens. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how the increased funding will be utilized and the broader implications for housing conditions in the Irish capital.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.