Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am familiar with the specific case Senator Noone referred to in Rathdowney. It is just outside my constituency. I familiar with the outlet specifically mentioned in her contribution. I am open to considering all proposals that come from local authorities. Equally, it is a matter for local authorities if they wish to exercise restraint. They can classify a particular property in a particular way to generate relief for the property owners. In addition, I have transferred the responsibility from the tenant to the landlord in respect of any difficulties where rates have not been paid in previous years. The responsibility is now attached to the property and the landlord of the property rather than the tenant. This should free up some movement in respect of ease of access to vacant units in places like the Rathdowney outlet, which, hopefully, will help as well.