Councillors 'disappointed' by Harris dereliction remarks (opens original article in a new tab)

Councillors expressed disappointment over Tánaiste Simon Harris's remarks criticizing local authorities for not adequately tackling dereliction, leading to plans for a new Derelict Property Tax. The Association of Irish Local Government highlighted systemic challenges and the need for legislative reform rather than blame.

• Tánaiste Simon Harris criticized local authorities for not doing enough to tackle dereliction, leading to plans for a new Derelict Property Tax.
• The Association of Irish Local Government expressed disappointment, stating local authorities have been actively addressing dereliction despite systemic challenges.
• The new tax, administered by Revenue, will initially apply to urban areas with populations over 4,000, with a second phase expanding to 64 more towns.