Fine Gael TD for Kildare North, Anthony Lawlor, has welcomed the announcement in the Budget of a home renovation tax incentive scheme saying it will give the beleaguered construction industry in this country a much needed boost.

Mr Lawlor said: "I welcome the announcement which will not only greatly assist families with the cost of renovating their homes, but it will give a much needed boost to the construction industry in terms of job creation.

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"With many families across the country living in houses that no longer suit their needs due to their expanding families, the home renovation tax incentive scheme will allow them to renovate their homes to make them more suitable and claim back the VAT of 13.5% over a two year period.

"This measure will also give the construction industry, which collapsed when the economic crisis hit, a much needed boost and help the many skilled workers who are on the Live Register to re-enter the workforce. VAT can be claimed back on a home renovation project costing between €5,000 and €30,000. In order to be eligible for this scheme, people must use a tax compliant and VAT registered contractor."

(CD/IT)