asked the Minister for Local Government when the inter-departmental committee was appointed to investigate the levying of rates; how often it has met; and when it expects to issue a report.
20.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Review of Rating System.
19.
asked the Minister for Local Government when the final report of the inter-departmental committee examining the rating system is expected.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 19 and 20 together.
The first meeting of the inter-departmental committee set up by the Minister for Local Government to investigate the present system of local finance and taxation took place on 6th October, 1961.
The full committee has met on 35 occasions; in addition, approximately 15 meetings of representatives from some only of the Departments concerned have been held to study particular aspects of the matter being investigated.
Summarised versions of reports by the committee dealing with valuation for rating purposes and exemptions from and remissions of rates were published in October, 1965, and July, 1967, respectively. A third report, which discussed rates and other sources of revenue for local authorities, is being printed and should be available for publication shortly. Preparation of a fourth report is well advanced. I cannot at present indicate when the committee's final report will be available.
It will be after the next election.
Brilliant.
It might be.