Varadkar to axe help to buy scheme whilst infrastructure projects such as Metro North will be his main focus – TheLiberal.ie – Our News, Your Views

Varadkar to axe help to buy scheme whilst infrastructure projects such as Metro North will be his main focus




The Social Protection minister and front runner for the Fine Gael leadership position Leo Varadkar has vowed to scrap the help to buy scheme if house prices continue to rise.

Mr Varadkar who outlined his manifesto for the coming years ahead will also put the majority of his and the Government’s focus into infrastructure if he is elected leader in just over a weeks time.

Speaking today Mr Varadkar said he believes the current help to buy scheme should be abolished if it doesn’t provide any real assistance to those looking to get on the property ladder.

The favourite to succeed Enda Kenny also said that he has no intention of abolishing the much debate USC charge claiming it would be completely foolish.

In what will be a busy week for Mr Varadkar, the former health minister also announced his plans to revive the the costly Metro North project along with the new Limerick to Cork motorway.

Speaking to reporters Mr Varadkar said: “It’s already agreed by government that there will be a review of the first-time buyers’ scheme to see if it’s been inflationary, I want to bring forward that review.”

“If that review finds it hasn’t been inflationary then it will continue, if the review finds – as some people believe – that it has driven up house prices for first-time buyers, I think it should be phased out.”

“I want to use that money for something very particular which is to provide step-down housing for older people.”

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