Alternative coalition - Stamp duty questions go unanswered

HOURS before the would-be government of Fine Gael and Labour set out their economic stall yesterday, the outgoing administration carried out a classic preemptive strike, claiming their promises would cost the moon and the stars.

Instead of basking in the warm glow of an unprecedented agreed agenda on tax and jobs, designed to win the hearts and minds of voters, the main opposition parties found themselves on the back foot.

In a time-worn gambit, Communications Minister Noel Dempsey challenged the alternative coalition to clarify 100 promises which, he claimed, would cost every voter €10,000. They should have seen it coming.

On the vexed issue of stamp duty, voters certainly deserve greater clarity, and there are indications that the current uncertainly is taking its toll on the market.

There is an onus on Fine Gael and Labour to spell out a time frame for their proposed reforms.

And unless Fianna Fáil makes its position clear, it risks damaging the construction industry or losing electoral support — or both.