Vol. 515 No. 2
121 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the proposals to impose rates on bed and breakfast premises; and if he will ensure there are waivers for homes which offer no more than six bedrooms in order that a similar approach is taken to these premises as in the planning laws. [5708/00]
The position is that the Government has given approval for the preparation of legislation which will: modernise the valuation code; enable a revaluation of all rateable properties to be carried out; and make the system more transparent to ratepayers and rating authorities.
It is intended to make the legislation as user-friendly as possible. There will, for example, be an improved appeals system. The parliamentary draftsman is currently finalising a draft which will be brought to Government as soon as the work is completed. The Government will consider the rateable status of bed and breakfast accommodation at that time.
