Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

We need to take a more innovative approach to commercial rates. I am particularly concerned about small rather than big businesses. I am not taking the IBEC line on this issue as I have experience of the matter but all businesses should pay their share and those which can pay should pay. That a large proportion of the commercial rates bill is paid by a small percentage of businesses needs to be examined. The north west and other areas have experienced a number of company closures in the traditional sector in recent times.