Vol. 519 No. 1
123 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on Government policy with regard to commercial rates on bed and breakfasts; if he will confirm it is not the intention to raise commercial rates on bed and breakfasts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13235/00]
The Government has given approval for the preparation of legislation which will modernise the valuation code, enable a revaluation of all rate able 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. Officials in my Department, the valuation office and the office of the parliamentary draftsman are currently finalising the text of the Bill which will be brought before Government shortly. The Government will only then decide if there is a case for altering the rateable status of bed and breakfast accommodation.
