Uisce Eireann levy waivers must be extended - McCabe

The temporary waiver of development levies and the refund of Uisce Éireann water and wastewater connection charges must be extended to further boost the supply of new housing stock according to a county councillor.

The measures boost the supply of housing and alleviate pressures in securing builders to carry out work, according to the Leas Cathaoirleach of Meath Co Council, Cllr Paul McCabe.

He said that a decision needs to be made very quickly by Minister O’Brien and government, as the waiver and refund scheme, which was first introduced in April 2023, is due to expire an the end of April.

“Since last year, builders of new-build homes have not been required to pay development levies to local authorities. Instead, the local authority invoices the amount of the levy to the Government, who refund it back to the local authority. In addition, water and wastewater connection charges levied by Uisce Éireann are refunded to the developer when valid commencement notices are issued,” Cllr McCabe explained.

“The waiver and refund scheme have proven immensely effective, as evidenced by the increase of commencements by 21 per cent in 2023 to over 32,800 housing units.

“The waiver has inadvertently caused serious pressure in the market and builders are under unprecedented demand to get houses started in order to avail of the waiver. This, added to the terrible weather over recent months has resulted in sites being closed and houses remaining unbuilt.”

He said Government action to activate the delivery of more homes is working, but government needed to ensure the upward trajectory continues.

“The deadline for the expiration of this temporary measure is fast approaching – the Housing Minister must take stock of the units that came on the market as a direct result of this measure and safeguard this crucial stream of supply” concluded Cllr McCabe.