Government proposals aimed at revamping commercial rates will help create a fairer playing field for local businesses, according to Longford-Westmeath Independent Deputy, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran.
Deputy Moran said the current system, which dates back as far as the 19th century, is not working and is in need of reform. He added that proposals being put forward by Minister Simon Coveney will allow local authorities to cut rates for businesses and allow for the introduction of different rate levels depending on the ‘business function’.
“Having a rates alleviation scheme is good news for local businesses as it will give powers to councillors to lower bills for certain categories of rate payers,” Deputy Moran said.
“There will also be a better, more common sense approach to the collection of rates, allowing for local authorities to collect in stage payments rather than the present two instalments method. Many local businesses across rural Ireland have been struggling and this new system will be fairer and balanced. The spreading out of payments will also help the cashflow of such businesses which have been hard hit for the past decade.”
Deputy Moran said the rates initiative reflects the Government’s overall approach to revitalising rural Ireland, and to ensuring that measures are undertaken to achieve its goals in supporting local economic development and the implementation of local authority development and area plans.
