John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Government appears to be ignoring all of the facts. I continue to work in the private sector and I am in a position to inform the Minister of State that the Government, in the context of the promise with regard to upward-only rent reviews, from which it walked away and its position on commercial rates, is hanging a noose around the necks of Irish businesspeople. It will regret doing so because future generations will not be willing to become entrepreneurs. All it need do is take action on some of the narrative it has sought to shape. It should start with the rates system and reduce the amounts demanded of businesses by the various local authorities. In the context of the Bill, I am suggesting there be flexibility in the payment of rates, as the existing system is impossible and difficult to operate. The governing legislation is too old and based on a notion for a different and long-gone era. I suggest in the Bill that the various laws in question be examined by means of an efficient and fast-track process that would provide for a suitable outcome. I have referred to the subsequent occupier clause and the position on properties owned by sports clubs, etc. There is also another Bill which was introduced in the House and on which the Government could build in developing a new structure. I accept the position on the Valuation Office, but such a new structure should incorporate a self-assessment aspect. The Government is so fond of self-assessment, it should apply it in this area. If self-assessment was introduced, valuations of properties could be carried out locally and occupiers and entrepreneurs could apply the going rate. If misleading information was provided - as is the case in other areas - those who supply it would be subject to penalties. This is the easiest and most cost-effective way to proceed.

The Government does not appear to be overly fond of reform. However, I urge it to embrace the reform the Bill would facilitate. It must do so immediately because, as Members on all sides are keenly aware, businesspeople cannot cope with either the level of taxes they are obliged to pay or the rates system. Those who export products and travel abroad on trade missions and win the orders necessary to keep their businesses open will inform the Minister of State that the one single matter which annoys them is commercial rates. The Government must take action in this regard immediately.

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