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

I agree with the sentiments expressed by both Deputies with regard to helping small businesses through these difficult times. Small businesses in a provincial town contribute a substantially higher proportion of their profit to their local authority than in a major town or city. There is a case to be made and I am prepared to look at any opportunities, with the help of the Minister for Finance, to deal with these matters. The Valuation (Amendment) Bill should give us the legislative basis to do that. We may make representations to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to see what can be done to find the legislative basis to do so.

Local authorities have shown flexibility, in so far as they can, to keep businesses open. I have asked them to be as flexible as they possibly can. Where a premises is not being used to the maximum I have asked them to show flexibility in reducing the rates burden, to tide us over the current difficult financial situation when the decline in trade and throughput means the disposable incomes of businesses are not what they were.

The development levy scheme was recently announced by the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan. The development contribution scheme is now under review by the local authorities. Where improvements need to be carried out in core strategy areas and town centres, local authority members now have a chance of reducing development contributions. There is not the same level of activity in those town centres at present and some respite or reduction in the development levy scheme could generate much needed economic activity in the form of improvements to premises and employment opportunities in those areas.

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