Rates review debated for struggling businesses

A REVIEW of rates for businesses that are struggling with rising costs and decreasing footfall has been called for.
The Dail debated an urgent motion calling for a review of rates, with Jobs and Enterprise Spokesperson, Willie Oโ€™Dea, stating that small employers in particular are suffering in the current economy.

โ€œBusinesses are struggling with rising costs and are now in fear of being hit with more stealth charges from the government in the budget,โ€ said Deputy Oโ€™Dea.
โ€œThere are thousands of employers across Limerick and the Mid West just keeping their heads above water.
โ€œWe need to do more at a national level to support them and for many businesses, one of the main costs are the rates charged by their local authorityโ€.
He added that the valuation lists used for most commercial properties are outdated as a result of the major changes experienced in property values in recent years, meaning businesses are paying inflated rates.
โ€œOther avenues of valuation could include self-assessment and a clause that would recognise a businessโ€™ ability to pay.
โ€œFine Gael and Labour have been in government since March but the reality is that both parties have controlled the majority of local authorities around the country since long before that.
โ€œThe rates charged at this level are no longer sustainable and reform must be brought about quickly to ensure businesses are in a stronger position next yearโ€.
He said that proposals to shift costs from central government directly to employers, as well as a 2% VAT increase coming in the budget, will โ€œput many of them out of business altogether.
โ€œThe government must refocus its attention toward job creation instead of hurting the very people in a position to grow the local and national economyโ€.
In June, national organisation Employers for Affordable Rates (EAR), met in Limerick to discuss measures to combat the level of rates being paid by businesses.

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