asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a decision taken by the NFA of Counties Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal at a regional meeting held in Bundoran on Wednesday, 4th March, to withhold the first moiety of the 1964 rates; if he is aware of the serious position which farmers in these areas find themselves, and of the difficulties which motivate such decisions; and if he will make a statement concerning the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Rates.
54.
I have not seen reports of the meeting referred to. However, any organised campaign to withhold rates would clearly be unlawful and could not be tolerated. On the general question of rates, I should point out that in 1962 the Government increased very substantially the amount provided for the relief of rates on agricultural land. In the financial year just ending relief to the extent of 57 per cent of the gross rates on agricultural land is being afforded by the Agricultural Grant and the total net amount of rates on land is less than the amount levied in 1956/57. Because of the operation of the Agricultural Grant, the impact on farmers of rising rates is far less than on persons rated to industrial, commercial and residential properties.
Is the attitude of the Government not to tolerate such action by the NFA?
That is answered in the reply I have already given.