Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I concur with previous speakers' comments on rates, which are a noose around the necks of business. The system must be reformed. The broadening of the tax base through the introduction of the domestic property tax and water charges has created scope for carrying out a review of the manner in which rates are collected from business. I have always maintained that rates on business should be linked to the performance of the business as opposed to the value of the premises. Under such a system, businesses which can afford to pay will pay and large rates bills will not block new entrants to business.

We have heard a great deal about the 9% VAT rate for tourism related businesses in the context of the budget. Not only should we retain this beacon for the economy, but we should extend it to other sectors. The introduction of a 4.5% rate of PRSI for people earning €350 per week or less was a proactive measure, which has helped many employers bring people into employment. I urge the Ministers to seek to retain it in next Tuesday's budget.

See this speech in context