61. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Finance the current supports, and any potential support mechanisms that are coming onstream, for first-time buyers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42134/15]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the only available support for first-time buyers is provided by section 266A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 which provides for refunds of deposit interest retention tax (DIRT) to first-time buyers who purchase or self-build a property for occupation as their home. The property must be purchased or self-built between 14 October 2014 and 31 December 2017. A first-time buyer who has either individually or jointly with any other person previously purchased or built a property is not eligible for a DIRT refund. The amount of the refund is capped at the DIRT paid on savings of up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price or, in the case of a self-built property, up to 20% of the market value of the completed property.

I have no plans at this stage for any additional support mechanisms in this area.