Tax relief for renters could be raised to around €760 in next month's Budget, under plans being discussed by Government.
The Housing Minister, Darragh O’Brien, said talks are underway around raising the credit for renters as well as extending it into next year.
The current value of the credit is €500 for an individual or a maximum of €1,000 a year for a jointly-assessed couple.
Speaking at the launch of a new housing development in Adamstown in Dublin today, the Minister would not be drawn on a figure.
But RTÉ News understand that the Minister has suggested a rate reflecting the average monthly rent, which is €760.
"I want it increased," the Minister said.
"It has been a real assistance to renters in reducing the actual cost. I have made it very clear I want to see it increased. I am not going to go into what level because we are in discussions at the moment in relation to the Budget preparations.
"Suffice to say I want to ensure that we are providing more assistance to renters out there, that we are helping first time buyers as well. I would also like to see the help to buy grant extended past the end of next year."
The Minister was speaking at the official launch of "The Crossing" - 5,000 residential units being developed by property company, Quintan, in Adamstown in Dublin.
He also said he would not rule out further tax levies on vacant properties.
Responding to a report in the Irish Times that there are more than 12,000 empty buildings across Dublin, he said this figure is still less than one per cent of the overall housing stock.
"It is part of our Housing for All plan to tackle vacancy. We are making progress, it is going in the right direction but we can always do more. There will be focus on additional tax measures as well."
