The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG), the national representative body for Ireland’s elected councillors, has expressed disappointment at comments by the Tánaiste suggesting that local authorities have “badly failed” in administering the Derelict Sites Levy.
AILG said that while there is broad agreement across local government that the current derelict sites regime requires significant reform, it is important that the considerable work undertaken by local authorities to tackle vacancy and dereliction over many years is recognised.
Commenting on the issue, AILG Executive Director Tommy Moylan said:
“Local authorities acknowledge the frustration communities feel when vacant and derelict properties remain unused. Councils share that frustration and have worked tirelessly to address these challenges despite significant limitations within the existing legislative framework.
It is disappointing to hear suggestions that local authorities have somehow failed in this area. The reality is that councils have consistently highlighted weaknesses in the existing system while working proactively to bring properties back into use through regeneration programmes, vacant homes initiatives, compulsory purchase powers, grants and direct engagement with property owners.”
Local authorities have been at the forefront of addressing vacancy and dereliction in towns, villages and cities throughout Ireland. Through Town Centre First initiatives, Urban Regeneration and Development Fund projects, Rural Regeneration and Development Fund projects, Croí Cónaithe schemes, Repair and Lease initiatives, Buy and Renew programmes, Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants, Compulsory Purchase Orders and the work of dedicated Vacant Homes Officers, councils have helped bring thousands of vacant and derelict properties back into productive use.
AILG noted that local authorities have repeatedly raised concerns regarding difficulties in tracing ownership, lengthy statutory procedures, complex probate and legal processes and the practical challenges involved in enforcing and collecting the levy under the Derelict Sites Act 1990.
“The issue has never been a lack of commitment from local authorities. Rather, it has been the limitations of legislation that is now more than three decades old,” Mr Moylan said.
“For that reason, local government has consistently supported the modernisation of the derelict sites regime. We welcome efforts to strengthen the system and ensure that more vacant and derelict properties are brought back into productive use.”
AILG also said it was vital that any new nationally administered Derelict Property Tax should include a mechanism to ensure revenues generated are reinvested in local communities and returned to local authorities to support regeneration initiatives, town centre renewal programmes and local vacancy reduction strategies.
“The debate should focus on how best to strengthen the tools available to local authorities rather than assigning blame to the very organisations that have led efforts to revitalise communities across Ireland,” Mr Moylan added.
“Ultimately, addressing vacancy and dereliction requires a partnership approach between central government, local government, property owners and communities. Local authorities have demonstrated their commitment to this objective and should be supported with modern legislation, effective enforcement mechanisms and adequate resources to continue this important work.”
ENDS
Association of Irish Local Government (AILG)
The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) is the national representative body and the collective voice of Ireland’s 949 city and county councillors. The AILG plays a key role in shaping policy, delivering training and education for elected members, and promoting public awareness of the essential contributions made by local councillors and their governing local authorities.
For more information, please contact Elaine Lynch – e.lynch@ailg.ie
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