Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government features a commitment "to encourage efficient local authorities to adopt commercial rates policies to help sustain existing business and encourage new start-ups". It will not come as a surprise to the Tánaiste to learn that many small and medium enterprises are facing rate increases of 20%, 30%, 40% and more. This is on the back of eight tough years during which they tried to keep the wolf from the door and keep their businesses open. Every Deputy and Senator is inundated with complaints from businesses concerning the application of commercial rates and increases in rates. We have information to show that one family business in Wexford with a turnover of €80,000 received a rates bill of €20,000. These figures speak for themselves and are completely unacceptable.

The equine industry is an important industry in most rural counties, including counties Kildare, Tipperary and Limerick, and employs thousands of people in rural areas. As with many other industries over the years, the sector has been reclassified as a leisure industry. This decision will bring the equine industry to its knees. Will the Tánaiste confirm that the Government will immediately review the relevant legislation and prevent further rates increases to try to retain vital jobs in rural areas?

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