Sinn Féin spokesperson on Finance, Pearse Doherty, has criticised Fine Gael’s plans to give €480m in additional tax breaks to landlords over three years.

Speaking in response to the launch of the Fine Gael manifesto, Teachta Doherty said:

“Fine Gael are stating clearly that they are on the side of landlords.

“Fine Gael have refused to cap rents. They have reinstated the landlord’s right to evict even when the tenant has not done anything wrong.

“Now they are promising that, if reelected, they will hand over half a billion euro of public money to landlords.

“Fine Gael have outlined in their manifesto an additional €480m in tax breaks for landlords over three years. This is on top of tax breaks they have already given landlords.

“This clearly shows where Fine Gael’s priorities lie.

“This tax measure has been criticised across the board by department officials, academics and the opposition.

“Officials in the Finance Department warned that there is more than enough tax relief already for landlords.

“It was wrong to give tax breaks to landlords that ordinary workers can’t get.

“On top of that, there is no evidence to support it will have a positive impact on the rental market.

“A former professor in the ESRI said it is the stupidest tax relief he has seen in years.

“Despite this, Fine Gael have chosen to make this promise to landlords ahead of the election.

“Sinn Féin in government would end the landlord tax credit and stand up for renters.”