Tánaiste dismisses stamp duty reduction rumours

The Tánaiste has dismissed reports that there will be a change in policy on stamp duty in the forthcoming Budget.

He was reacting to newspaper speculation over comments he made last September when he said there needs to be a significant reduction in the take from stamp duty.

The comments led to speculation over a possible rift between the PD leader and the Minister for Finance.

Michael McDowell said PD manifesto proposals should not be confused with everyday Government business relating to the Budget.

“I've said nothing about the budget and stamp duty and I don't intend saying anything in relation to that.”

The Tánaiste added: “Others can speculate because it's not proper for me to speculate on any of these matters and neither the Minister for Finance, the Taoiseach of any other minister of the Government has engaged in any such speculation.”