Barry Cowen (Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

170. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government his plans to reform the commercial rates system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15961/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Local authorities are under a statutory obligation to levy rates on any property used for commercial purposes in accordance with the details entered in the valuation lists prepared by the independent Commissioner of Valuation pursuant to the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015. The levying and collection of rates are matters for each individual local authority. 

Commercial rates form an important element of the funding of all local authorities.  The principle of local authorities levying rates based on an independent valuation is well established and I have no plans to change this.  However, the legislative basis for the levying of rates is spread over a number of enactments, some dating back to the 19th century.  I have asked my Department to develop proposals for the preparation of a Rates Bill to modernise and consolidate the legislation in this area.  I will be bringing proposals to Government on this matter shortly.