A reduction in rates is needed as rates are a “big burden” for all companies and often the cause of viable businesses having to close with the subsequent loss of jobs.
This is the view of Independent Galway West TD Noel Grealish, who is calling on the Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan to look at ways of alleviating the pressure of commercial rates.
Dep Grealish feels that the introduction of the household charge means local authorities have a new source of income and this in turn provides an opportunity to reduce rates.
“We need to ensure there is a balance between businesses continuing to pay rates and ensuring the rates bill does not become an overwhelming burden that causes them to close,” he said. “Businesses are going through very challenging times and alleviating some of the rates burden will be a step in the right direction.”
Dep Grealish will be meeting Minister Hogan to discuss this matter.
