asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware that some rate collectors employed by local authorities now collect rates less than the cost of their salaries, due to the abolition of domestic and agricultural rates; the measures, if any, he is taking to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rate Collectors.
17.
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 575 of 21 May 1985 on this matter. Since then management, represented by the Local Government Staff Negotiations Board, and the staff interests have concluded a formal agreement, under the conciliation and arbitration process, incorporating a package of measures designed to achieve further significant rationalisation of local authority rate and revenue collection arrangements. It is a matter for each local authority concerned to negotiate suitable rationalisation arrangements in line with this agreement. I understand that such negotiations are being actively pursued.
Could the Minister indicate as a result of these negotiations and rationalisation procedures how many rate collectors there are now? Could he indicate that there were suggestions during the negotiations that these people could be used for general revenue collection rather than just rate collection? Could the Minister indicate if anything has been done in that regard?
The latest date for which figures are available is 1984. In 1978 there were 493 rate collectors and the latest figure is 328. There is a significant drop. An agreement which is not obligatory on rate collectors has been reached. A package has been drawn up and they have until 31 May 1986 to accept or reject that package. At least there is a genuine effort and attempt to resolve this problem, but it has to be resolved by way of negotiations. That process has been continuing. Suggestions have been brought before the bodies and they have a period in which they can accept or refuse. Rate collectors may participate in the rationalisation scheme either by consenting to the abolition of their office, or accepting an early retirement offer, or becoming revenue collectors. The aim is to get another grade of revenue collector into the local authority. This is being done within the local authorities but it must be on the basis of agreement and negotiation.
This is all part of the package that is being negotiated?
Yes.