LIMERICK City and County Council has been asked to send a clear message to the Government to enact emergency legislation that will set the annual rateable value of commercial properties at 2014 levels.
Speaking ahead of a special Council meeting to debate the rateable valuation process this Friday, Independent councillor for Adare-Rathkeale, Emmett O’Brien also called for an extension on the time allocated for businesses to make representations to the valuation office. Alternatively, he suggests the phasing in on the increase of rates over a five year period.
He claims that the rateable valuation process of commercial rates is an issue that affects many businesses throughout the county.
“We must ensure that businesses in Limerick expand and develop. Not only do these business pay rates, which fund services, but they create employment and bring vibrancy and growth to our county,” he said.
“The Government must include partial exemptions for start-up businesses for the first 12 months of their new enterprise and include exemptions for rate payers of unoccupied commercial properties who are unable to obtain a suitable tenant,” he added.
Cllr O’Brien also pointed out that over 70 per cent of all Irish workers are employed in a small to medium business.
“While we will do our part at Council level the Government must act now,” he concluded.
