Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

There have been no increases in rates. Ms Maguire is correct that rates were increased in Cork City Council, but they were ring-fenced for tourism promotion and for selling the city, which would benefit businesses in general. It was very successful. One of the difficulties I see in Cork is that the rate base has narrowed in the city centre. It may have expanded when one looks at the overall rate base, but in the city centre there are shops lying idle in Patrick Street, which does nothing for attempts to promote the city. Is it within the scope of local authorities to provide rate breaks to new businesses wishing to open up, or is the legislation clear that the rate must be charged?