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

As other Deputies have said, this particular provision was introduced in Dublin, Limerick and Cork with the objective of mobilising properties where landlords were sitting on them. There is a difference of opinion on this, and the circumstances of each of the local authorities will determine how they might implement such a scheme. There is a provision in the development contribution scheme which allows for derelict sites to have a lower or higher development contribution rate applied if a local authority wants to enhance development. Obviously, if the rate is lowered, this incentivises people to develop sites. Such an incentivised scheme under the development contribution scheme might apply to people who receive grant assistance from Enterprise Ireland, the IDA or the local enterprise board and could be targeted at particular areas.

There is discretion for local councillors to do this under the existing development contribution scheme. I am conscious of what Deputy Denis Naughten said about rural areas where it would be ideal to have a targeted response to commercial rates. The Deputy will have an opportunity to discuss that issue in the debate on the valuation Bill because commercial rates can only be applied based on the overhaul of the valuation scheme. Committee Stage of the Bill will be taken in the Seanad next month. I have no difficulty with the sentiments expressed, but I cannot deal with them in the context of the Bill under discussion.

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