A TOTAL of 85 per cent of Limerick businesses (4,094) were fully compliant with rates last year, according to figures from the local authority.
Sinn Féin councillor Ursula Gavan asked at September’s Metropolitan District meeting for a breakdown of the businesses in compliance and arrears.
She also wanted to know how many pay nothing and what additional steps are being taken to improve rate take up.
Cllr Gavan was informed that as of December 31, 2023, 4,094 – or 85 per cent of ratepayers – were fully compliant.
Another 433 (nine per cent) are in payment plans, and 281 (six per cent) did not pay in 2023 — this includes accounts in liquidation, receivership, in probate and also a number of accounts where the premises are vacant and the Rates Section are awaiting vacancy forms from the owners.
Financial accountant at Limerick City and County Council Irene Griffin explained that, as in prior years, the Council continued to initiate legal proceedings in cases where no progress was being made in recovering the arrears due.
She also noted that considerable progress has been made in reducing the long term arrears, due to the Council.
“Many of our customers are now on payment plans or paying by direct debit which are designed to clear the arrears in a timely manner while at the same time erasing the burden for the ratepayer,” Ms Griffin told Council members.
In addition, she said, the Council also offers an annual Small and Medium Business Support Scheme, whereby the ratepayer may be entitled to 13.5 per cent rebate of their annual rates, up to a maximum grant of €1,500 if the applicant is paying their rates by direct debit or pays their annual rates in full by July 31.
“The Council encourages customers who are experiencing difficulties to engage with their account manager as soon as possible.”
