Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is proposed to change the Long Title of the Bill in order to reflect the importance of correctness of valuations and their relativity to each other, as already provided for in section 49 and otherwise in the Principal Act. The important and overriding principle is that the valuation of properties is determined correctly in themselves and correctly by reference to the values of other comparable properties in the same rating authority area. It is a fundamental principle of valuation practice that all values entered on a valuation list are not only a correct reflection of the value of individual properties, but also that all values are consistently applied and correct relative to each other. This is an issue we have debated to a great extent and will continue to debate. The relativity of the value of property is what determines the proportion of the rates, in a rating authority area, which an occupier will be asked to pay. The amendment is being made to remove any room for ambiguity that could arise in regard to the method of valuation used and to reinforce correctness and uniformity as overriding principles which underpin the rateable valuation system.

An amendment to the Long Title is also proposed to reflect the provisions in the Bill which provide the opportunity, where appropriate, for occupiers of properties to undertake certain steps in the valuation process which will assist towards assessment of a valuation. Such a provision is designed to speed up the valuation process in certain areas where it is likely to be beneficial and cost effective. This is referred to as the "occupier assisted valuation". It is only right and appropriate that the Long Title of the Bill accurately reflects the content of the Bill. What I have attempted to do is to reflect the various amendments that have been passed on Committee Stage.