asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of the ever-rising rates due to the increase in cost to local authorities of social services generally, he will consider increasing the grant in aid of relief on agricultural land.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Grant.
Mr. Murphy
The grant for the relief of rates on agricultural land is now related to the amount of the rates on land and has been increasing each financial year since 1945-46. The sum provided for relief of rates on land this year is £3,720,000, which is £544,300 more than the amount of the preceding financial year and £1,850,000 more than was provided in the year ended 31st March, 1946. The question of the amount of the grant for the financial year beginning on 1st April next is under consideration.
Can the Minister give an assurance that the upper trend in rates on agricultural land has at last reached its peak?
Mr. Murphy
I am not in a position to give any assurances on this question to-day.