ENVIRONMENT MINISTER TO REVIEW LEGISLATION ON CITY COMMERCIAL RATES

Date Published: 14-Nov-2012

Environment Minister Phil Hogan has agreed to review legislation surrounding commercial rates on vacant buildings in the city early next year.

A deputation from the City Council met with the Minister in Dublin last evening in an effort to change the current refund of rates which stands at 100 percent. (13/11)

The Council argues that this rebate does not provide any incentive for landlords to reduce rent in order to attract new tenants.

Other local authorities such as Limerick and Cork City Councils grant just 50 percent refund of rates.

City Councillor Padraig Conneely says the Minister is also considering ring-fencing commercial rates for vacant buildings to boost 'economic development' in the city.