In recent times the following direction was issued by the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government relating to commercial rates and the impacts on local businesses within Athlone and its environs affected by COVID-19.
“The Government has agreed with the County and City Management Association that local authorities should defer rates payments due from businesses most immediately impacted by COVID-19, primarily in the retail, hospitality, leisure and childcare sectors, for at least a three month period.
”Westmeath County Council acknowledges and understands the severe impact that COVID-19 has had and is having on a wide range of local businesses. We are already working with rate payers affected by the unprecedented situation which continues to persist.
“In line with the Government direction, we will be deferring rates payments due from any Rrate payer impacted by COVID-19 for the period to the end of June2020. Any rate payer in a position to pay their rates should continue to do so, while those experiencing cash flow difficulties should email [email protected] or telephone 044 933 8959.
“Having the following information to hand (or their inclusion in an email ) will help us to deal with your communication.
• A customer (five digit number ) or property reference number.
• Address of the property.
• Your mobile or landline number.
“While email enables us to deal with your query more efficiently, we will make every effort to deal with any phone calls as quickly as possible. Westmeath County Council staff will work with you during these unprecedented and challenging times and we will respond to queries on a daily basis.
“Please note the Council’s Local Enterprise Office continues to provide a range of supports, details of which are available via the following link:https://www.localenterprise.ie/response,” a Westmeath County Council spokesperson commented.
