Proposed Reduction in City Multiplier Will Create Stronger Local Economy for Everyone
10 December 2013: Limerick Chamber has welcomed the proposal to reduce the commercial rates multiplier in Limerick City by 15.8%, equalising the rate between City and County.
Speaking about the proposal Limerick Chamber CEO, Maria Kelly, said, “This is fantastic news for Limerick businesses. The equalisation of the rates differential between the City and County has always been a primary focus of the lobbying work of Limerick Chamber; it is why we supported the amalgamation of the local authorities. The Local Authority CEO Conn Murray has always been committed to eradicating the baseline inequality that has existed between our two neighbouring authorities. The fact that this could be delivered ahead of schedule is indicative of his drive and leadership. This proposal has also come to fruition due to strong political support from Central Government and we should acknowledge the support of our local ministers, Mr Michael Noonan, Minister of Finance and Ms Jan O’Sullivan, Minister of State for Housing, as well Minister Phil Hogan and his Department.”
“Nevertheless, this is just a proposal; the final decision rests with our elected representatives who must balance budgets. The current elected councillors, at both City and County Authorities, have shown in recent years their commitment to supporting businesses by annually decreasing commercial rates in the City and not increasing rates in the County. We would strongly urge our councillors to support business and accept this proposal. The rates reduction will significantly reduce the cost of doing business in the City and will incentivise businesses to remain or locate in the city, thereby, providing a much needed boost to the city centre and creating new jobs. A stronger city centre translates to a stronger economy for everyone in the County and region. The rationalisation of the delivery mechanisms and efficiencies this will bring into the future will allow this reduction to be financially sustainable in the long run,” continued Ms Kelly.
“Limerick Chamber, through our amalgamation with the Limerick City Business Association (LCBA) in 2013 with the formation of LCBA@TheChamber, is committed to supporting and facilitating business in the City. This proposed reduction would be a significant step toward stabilising the business environment for our members. It is very important that businesses in the City must now pay their rates and support this move to allow the city authority to deliver the services our city requires,” Ms Kelly concluded.
ENDS
For further information, please contact Edwina Gore, Communications Consultant, Limerick Chamber, 061 217607 / 087 6295323
Share On.....