Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is a matter which I raised with the Minister previously on Committee Stage. I also raised it with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. There is much concern on the ground among business people whose rateable valuations are currently being reviewed. This is happening in Waterford at present. I agree with those of my colleagues who have argued that the current system does not reflect the modern economic challenges out there, including the decline of city and town centres and the increase in online trade. Following the recent revaluations in Waterford city and county, the rates for some industries, mainly multinationals, fell but I would argue that such industries can well afford to pay higher rates to the local authorities. In the retail sector, however, which is seriously challenged at the moment, rates have increased, in some case by up to three times the original amount.

Leaving that issue aside, the revaluation process is almost ten years behind as we speak. There is a need for an urgent review of the entire rateable valuation system. While I acknowledge the system's independence, it must take account of the modern economic challenges that exist. Modern technologies are challenging businesses, as Deputies have already said. The issue of self-assessment must be examined too. There is a need for self-assessment in this area and I hope we will get an opportunity to discuss this further when the Valuation (Amendment) Bill comes before the House under the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. I ask that the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government also take account of the concerns being expressed here today.

See this speech in context