Govt pockets 40% of new house prices, say builders

The Government's take on the cost of a new house is now as high as 40%, according to Hubert Fitzpatrick of the Irish Homebuilders Association.

In their pre-budget submission, the association is calling for the Government's cut to be reduced.

They want a cut in stamp duty, but no cuts in spending on roads and other infrastructure.

They also want the compliance date for urban renewal to be extended for another year to the end of 2005.