Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Government is preparing for a major revamp of commercial rates. Many businesses and small and medium enterprises, SMEs, are depending on the Bill that will deal with them coming before the House. Local authorities will be given the power to reduce their rates. I come from Dundalk, where many small wee businesses are struggling to cope with the cost of rents, rates, insurance and other expenses. This is a very important issue. In his previous role as Minister with responsibility for the environment, the Minister pushed very hard in this respect. Can he advise what is happening with respect to commercial rates?

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