Tax breaks an option to tackle housing crisis

People struggling to buy a home could receive tax breaks from the next government in a bid to halt the escalating housing crisis.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan said the move is one of a number of options the department will consider if they are put forward by the housing committee over the coming weeks.

Speaking amid continuing concerns that some families are being priced out of the property market, the Fine Gael minister said while builders and developers are seeking Vat construction cost cuts, he may prefer to give tax breaks to those in need.