Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her response. I wish to reiterate the importance of examining the valuation process. I acknowledge that it needs to be independent, but it is working in an inherited system that is not fit for purpose, given the current economic reality. The Government is doing good work by creating efficiencies in local government and how services are delivered. We have broadened the tax base through the introduction of the property tax, in return for which people rightly expect the delivery of services, and water charges. We have proposed a new sustainable system, yet the valuation system is dated and is still working to the older model. Waterford's problem with this, particularly given the amalgamation and the issue of rates equalisation and harmonisation, is that the rates for the large multinationals in my constituency have decreased despite their being able to pay rates. Small shops and retailers in small villages, towns and the city centre have seen their rates increase by 300%. This cannot work. I am asking the Minister of State in the presence of her senior officials to examine this issue closely. It is happening in my constituency now, but it will happen across the country as the rates valuation process gets under way. I understand that a Bill is before the Seanad and will enter the Dáil, at which point we will all have an opportunity to examine this issue more closely so that local authorities can be more sustainable and efficient and can deliver value for money services. We have time on our side and I expect the Minister of State and her officials to listen to what I am saying. I thank the Minister - sorry, the Chairman - for allowing me to contribute.