Families lose out

THE Government has withdrawn its subsidy to first-time home buyers while retaining massive support for investors. First-time buyers are down €3,800 grant and €1,800 VAT on a €200,000 house.

A large proportion of those renting high-value properties can only afford 20 or 30 a week. The Government pays the balance - say, 150 a week - thus justifying the investor paying a price for the house that many hardworking couples can’t afford.

Rent allowance is maintaining large profits for builders and speculators.

This discrimination in favour of investors by the government is keeping families out of the housing market.

Pat McCarthy,

Church Hill,

Glanmire,

Co Cork.