asked the Minister for Local Government if community halls, youth clubs, community information offices and similar types of nonprofit-making community recreational facilities will be derated as the cost in relation to the total amount of rates collected would be negligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Community Recreation Facilities.
15.
The system of rates is at present being reviewed and the liability of the occupiers of premises referred to by the Deputy to pay rates will fall to be considered in this context.
I understood the Minister was to make a statement on the whole question of community halls in this context. In a number of them throughout the country the managers have accepted payment in annual amounts. Some of these people are unable to pay these rates and it may not be possible to carry on with some of the halls.
It is the Valuation Office which decides what is to be rated and what is not to be rated. The question asks me to make a statement, and the statement I have made is that the matter is being reviewed and the problem will be considered when a decision has been made.
I appreciate that, but when can we hope to be told of the result?
If I replied to that I would be giving the decision before a decision actually had been made.