asked the Minister for Local Government what progress has been made with regard to the investigation of the present system of rates with a view to providing a more equitable system of local finance and taxation; and whether he intends to provide any extra relief for farmers to offset the steep increases in rates which have taken place throughout the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rating System.
29.
Considerable progress has been made with investigations into various aspects of the valuation and rating systems but proposals for the introduction of any necessary changes or reforms have not yet reached the stage of final decision.
No change is at present contemplated in the legislation enacted last year for the relief of rates on agricultural land in the period up to the 31st March, 1967.
(Cavan): Has the Minister any proposals to give some relief to urban ratepayers who are particularly heavily hit this year without any corresponding relief?
There is no change contemplated at the moment.
(Cavan): In the foreseeable future?
It depends on one's foresight.