Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for taking this question today. I wish to address the significant importance of our local government and the equitable treatment of our elected representatives. Will the Minister of State clarify whether the exemptions from commercial rates which currently benefit TDs, Senators and MPs will be extended to the constituency offices of county councillors? As we are all aware, the exemption for commercial rates for the constituency office of TDs, Senators and MPs is a recognition of the essential public service they provide. It helps them to operate their offices, thereby enabling them to focus on servicing their constituents more effectively. County councillors, who are the backbone of our local government system, do not currently enjoy this exemption. These dedicated representatives work tirelessly to address the needs and concerns of the local communities. Of all elected representatives, they are the closest to our citizens and they are often the first point of contact for constituents seeking assistance on a wide range of issues from housing and planning to local infrastructure and community services.

It is only fair and just that county councillors receive the same support as our counterparts in the national and European parliaments. The financial burden of commercial rates on councillors' constituency offices can be significant, especially considering they receive the lowest pay of all elected representatives and that the majority of them have to work part time in addition to their council work.

A report in the Business Post in 2023 highlighted that Ireland has the weakest local government in the European Union. While broader reforms to strengthen local government are sorely needed, the extension of the commercial rates exemption is a good start and is readily achievable. The lack of this exemption is an unnecessary impediment to councillors' ability to serve the public effectively. I urge the Minister of State to consider the invaluable role county councillors play in our democratic system and to inform this House if the extension of the commercial rate exemption to the constituency offices has been discussed by his Minister. If so, what have they discussed and what plans and timelines have they formulated?