Fair Deal scheme changes
Deputy Scanlon asked when promised Fair Deal changes for small farms and small businesses would be implemented, citing hardship from the current charge. The Tánaiste said the political decisions were made and the matter was now one of implementation, with timelines to follow.
Over a year ago, the Government gave a commitment in the budget that it would make changes to the fair deal scheme, particularly with regard to small farm families and small businesses. As we know, there is a 7.5% charge on the family home for three years. A commitment was given that the same would apply to land and small businesses. It is creating severe hardship for many small business owners and small farm families. When will the changes to the scheme be made?