The tax on second homes has raised almost €58 million, exceeding expectations, it was reported today.
The €200 annual charge on non principal private residences was expected to yield about €40 million in the first year. Figures seen by The Irish Times in December showed the tax take has raised €51.7 million.
According to RTÉ Radio's Morning Ireland, some 285,000 homes have made payments around the country to date.
The fee, which goes to local authorities, applies to people who own a property that is not their sole or main residence.
It is believed that compliance currently stands at around 70 per cent, which leaves more money for the local authorities to collect.
Payment for 2009 was due by the end of September; the deadline was then extended by a month before the introduction of penalties at €20 a month.
The 2010 charge will have to be met before June 30th.