IRISH businesses paid €1.35 billion in commercial rates in the last year, an average increase of 47% in the past decade.
The figures were revealed at a meeting of Employers for Affordable Rates (EAR) in Limerick, with one businessman calling rates “an old tax that is strangling companies”.
Representatives from 300 small to medium businesses gathered in a bid to combat the level of rates being paid, which, they say, are crippling them.
The campaign was initially set up in Wexford.
Limerick-born Vincent Jennings, CEO of the Newsagents Association, described rates in Limerick city as appalling, considering the level of service provided, referring to the disruption on William Street.
Michael Moloney, owner of Dalcassian pub and supermarket in Ruan, Co. Clare, said trade was down 50% in three years.
“I’ve been in the business 53 years and we’ve never experienced a hit like this.
“I used to employ 16 and now its just me and my family.
“I’m paying €100,000 in rates a year, but these are different times and the government should be taking that on board because charges are astronomical”.
Donnacha Hurley, GM of the Absolute, set up the Limerick meeting.
“This is an opportunity for business owners to highlight how unsustainable the current levies are.
“Businesses are being hindered, rather than allowed flourish”.
Founder of the campaign, Wexford’s John Conran, said retailers were being forced to cut all costs but couldn’t do anything about rates.
“We should be able to fight rates if there is an economic change of circumstances.
“Our aim is to become a strong lobbying group because middle Ireland is being crucified.
“We want to pay rates but they must be affordable, and the government must recognise that action is needed”.
Mark Fielding of the ISME (Irish small and medium business sector), said that the joining of both Limerick authorities was part of the reform he wanted to see.
“In 1978, domestic rates were relieved. In 1984 agriculture rates were relieved, and businesses were left to carry the burden.
“Rates have increased 300% since I began in 1980”.
