asked the Minister for Local Government if he has directed local authorities to issue rate demands to farmers on the basis of proposals for legislation that have not yet been introduced and considered by the Dáil; and, if so, if he has satisfied himself as to the advisability of this procedure.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rate Demands.
The present statutory basis of distribution of the agricultural grant is the Rates on Agricultural Land (Relief) Act, 1939. Local authorities have, however, been proceeding on the mistaken assumption that the Rates on Agricultural Land (Relief) Act, 1946, was in operation or that it would be extended, without amendment, to the financial year 1953-54. As it is proposed to submit legislative proposals to the Oireachtas to apply the Rates on Agricultural Land (Relief) Act, 1946, with amendments, to the current financial year, it was necessary to notify local authorities of this intention. They were informed that demand notes might be prepared in accordance with the new proposals, but they were given no direction on this point. This procedurewas followed on previous occasions. It is obviously the only practicable procedure in the circumstances.