Brendan Smith
Question:28 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance his views on the need to provide specific financial incentives to business people who invest in small business premises in rural towns and villages; if his attention has been drawn to the considerable competition which exists for small stores, particularly in relation to the multiples that are now located in most provincial centres; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that most business premises, when refurbished, have their valuations raised and thus an additional rates burden is imposed; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that in most instances, the enhancement or refurbishment of the premises is necessary to retain existing business and in most cases does not result in additional business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3944/97]