Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware of the serious difficulties that the revaluation process in Waterford city and county has caused for some businesses there. There will always be winners and losers in revaluation. In the case of the local authorities in Waterford, 56% of businesses have been classified as losers and the remainder as winners. One always hears from the losers and not the winners. I am unable to do anything in the context of this legislation to allay Deputy Coffey's concerns in relation to this matter. However, I have engaged and will continue to engage with the Minister, Deputy Howlin, on the matter to see what we can do alleviate the pressure in the short term on those businesses whose rates bills have been substantially increased.

In regard to what is proposed in relation to the amalgamation in Waterford, which is a separate issue, I am anxious to harmonise the rates situation in Waterford in a quicker timeframe than the ten years set out in order to give more certainty to businesses there. I hope to harmonise rates bills downwards rather than upwards.