Batt O'Keeffe (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Senator Kitt asked whether local authorities would have their central funding cut if the BID scheme got up and running. A key to the success of a BID is that the projects, works or services are fully additional to any such projects, works or services that are carried out by a local authority and that the relevant responsibilities of both parties to a BID agreement — the proponents of a BID scheme and the local authority — are clearly set out. The Bill provides that the relevant baseline services carried out by a local authority are set out in the BID proposal. The service to be given at any moment will be benchmarked. From there, the additions will be part of the BID programme and that will be made clear to the business community and the members of the local authority. I assure Senator Kitt that central funding will certainly not be cut as a result of the implementation of a BID plan.

Senator Brady and Senator Quinn outlined the benefits of the business improvement districts. I thank them for that and Senator O'Toole has also been very positive on the issue. This particular scheme will provide a spur to businesses in the area and will increase the overall well-being of businesses in BID communities. We must ensure that all businesses are aware of the scheme and of its advantages. We are fortunate that the chambers of commerce and other business entities are very much in favour of the scheme. We will take on board the suggestion made that local authorities and the Department advertise this. I have no doubt that in pursuing her successful return to the Dáil, Senator O'Rourke will use her newsletter to great advantage.