Legislative Measures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 June 2018

Tuesday, 19 June 2018

Questions (606)

Bobby Aylward

Question:

606. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the position regarding the commercial rates Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26923/18]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government

Commercial rates form an important element of the funding of all local authorities. However, the legislative basis for the levying of rates consists of over 20 separate pieces of legislation, some dating back to the 19th century.

My Department developed legislative proposals to modernise and consolidate the legislation governing commercial rates into a single enactment and, in this regard, the Government last year approved the drafting of a commercial rates Bill. The Bill is currently with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel for drafting, with a view to its introduction as soon as possible.