FG accuses Govt of creating uncertainty over stamp duty
Fine Gael is accusing the Government of creating uncertainty in the property market over its confusing pre-election stance on stamp duty.
The accusation is the latest salvo in a growing war of words between the Government parties and the opposition over the issue.
Last week, the PDs accused Fine Gael and Labour of threatening the health of the housing market by failing to set out a timetable for their planned stamp duty reform.
The PDs themselves promised to abolish the tax for first-time buyers immediately after the election should they form part of the next Government.
Minister for Finance Brian Cowen, meanwhile, has insisted that Fianna Fáil will not interfere in the property market, but the Taoiseach hinted over the weekend that the party was planning an initiative to help first-time buyers.
Fine Gael says these mixed messages from the government parties show that the only uncertainty in relation to stamp duty is coming from within the current coalition.
