Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy is aware that last year saw relatively moderate rate increases nationwide and one local authority — Limerick City Council if I recall correctly — cut its rates for the first time for a long period. The circular letter I will issue this week to local authorities will ask them to exercise caution regarding rate increases. However, the gross rates figures achieved by local authorities reflect a considerable buoyancy in the commercial sector. The Deputy should note there are approximately 250,000 more small and medium sized companies than was the case and consequently, the rates yield is significant.

The Deputy is correct as this illustrates that tighter control within local authorities will certainly squeeze out more value for money. I made an announcement yesterday to the effect that I would make significant changes regarding audit committees within local authorities, to allow them to bring in expertise. A point made by councillors from across the political spectrum is that they find it increasingly difficult to come to grips with the estimates as presented. The latter are frequently described as being impenetrable and frequently are so. I want this to change because, like the Deputy, I want value for money in local government.

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