Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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256. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government when the revaluation Bill will come before the Houses of the Oireachtas. [52514/17]

Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
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I understand the Question refers to the General Scheme of a Rates Bill.

Commercial rates form an important element of the funding of all local authorities. However, the legislative basis for the levying of rates is spread over a number of enactments, some dating back to the 19th century. Many of the provisions are outdated and not suitable for business trends in the modern era. My Department has developed legislative proposals to modernise and consolidate the legislation governing commercial rates. The main issues being addressed in the General Scheme include the consolidation of over 20 separate pieces of legislation dealing with commercial rates into a single enactment; improved enforcement powers for local authorities to collect rates; provisions to allow the local authority to introduce rates alleviation schemes to support national and local policy objectives; and provisions for temporary abatement for vacant premises.

In this regard, the Government approved the drafting of a Rates Bill on 11 April 2017. The General Scheme of the Bill is currently with the Attorney General’s office for drafting.