asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that there have been instances of increased valuations of residential houses in the Dublin area of as much as 33? per cent and more within the last two years; if, as this is a serious hardship upon very many people of limited means who reside in such dwellings since it, inevitably, results in very much increased living costs by reason of the existing high rates, he will urgently examine present legislation with a view to providing a more equitable system than that now obtaining, the operation of which is causing considerable worry and distress to the parties concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Valuation Increases.
63.
I am informed by the Commissioner of Valuation, who is statutorily responsible for administration of the valuation code, that increases of the order mentioned have taken place in the Dublin area within the past two years. Any change in the valuation of houses is effected under the statutory procedure which obliges the Commissioner of Valuation to undertake the revision of valuation of any premises if requested by the local authority to do so. An increase in valuation would be called for in any case where the existing valuation of the premises is found to be substantially below the level which would reflect their present net annual letting value. A frequent reason for such increases was that houses formerly valued as family dwellings were found to have been sub-divided into flats, apartments or bedsittingrooms.
I may add that any person aggrieved by reason of an increase in valuation has the right to appeal initially to the Commissioner of Valuation and subsequently, if still dissatisfied, to the Courts as laid down in the Valuation Acts.
As regards the second part of the question, the review by an interdepartmental committee of all aspects of local taxation and finance, including the impact of rates on various classes of ratepayers, has not yet reached the stage where comprehensive proposals for any changes which may be considered necessary can be formulated.
Is it not a fact that this committee was set up in the lifetime of the Taoiseach's predecessor and has existed for some years, but that as yet we have not seen emanating from it any concrete results? Its purpose was to bring about an alleged reform of local taxation.
Reports have been issued.
They have not had any effect so far as Dáil Éireann is concerned, and no proposals were put before us to effect a much needed reform in the present rating system which is causing grave hardships. In equity, will the Minister take what steps he can to bring about a very much needed reform in this sphere?
It is not primarily my responsibility. I am answering a question on the functions of the Commissioner of Valuation.
I have asked the Minister to examine the present legislation with a view to its amendment if necessary, and so on, and if he can produce a more satisfactory system. Surely that is the Minister's function?
We would all love that. People have been trying to do it for 100 years and have not succeeded.
Surely that does not daunt a man of the Minister's capacity?