Dozens of derelict sites in Meath as €880k in levies goes uncollected
Meath East TD, Darren O’Rourke, said the Government has “failed” to tackle dereliction, with thousands of vacant homes and buildings across the State “left to rot” while more than €26m in levies remains uncollected nationally.
In Meath, 38 derelict sites have been identified, with €881,895 outstanding as of December 31, 2024.
His comments come after Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould brought the Derelict Sites (Amendment) Bill 2022 to Second Stage in the Dáil last week. The Bill aims to strengthen accountability around the collection of the levy and prevent disputes between central government and local authorities from delaying enforcement.
Under current Government plans, responsibility for collecting the levy will transfer to the Revenue Commissioners from 2027. However, there are no provisions for the backdated collection of unpaid charges.
Mr O’Rourke said the outstanding sums could instead be used to refurbish derelict buildings, provide housing and support local communities.
“That money could be used to bring buildings back into use, to deliver new homes and invest in local communities right across Co Meath. Collecting it in full should be a priority,” he said.
“It is a no-brainer but, instead, this Government intends to introduce what amounts to an amnesty.”
“Speculators and hoarders will be allowed to leave these homes and buildings to rot while local authorities are given no additional funding to collect the levies.
He added that the Derelict Sites Levy has been in place for 36 years.
"In that time, local authorities have repeatedly called for more resourcing and more support to allow them to collect this,” Mr O’Rourke said.
“People are taken to court for failing to pay their TV licence or a parking fine. They are penalised and forced to pay these penalties. How can speculators leave homes and buildings to rot with no punishment?”
“There are 38 derelict sites across County Meath. That is scandalous. I am sick of seeing towns and villages fall into decline because someone thinks they can make money from holding on to a site.”
“It’s long past time for the Government to take this issue seriously. We need real action urgently. This Bill alone won’t solve dereliction, but it is a concrete step that can be taken now.”