Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 October 2021
473. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will put in place an alternative income stream for Offaly County Council to compensate for the €1.65 million loss of commercial rates following the closure of Shannonbridge power station, particularly as this loss represents a 9% in the local authority’s funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51033/21]
View answerIn 2019 Shannonbridge accounted for approximately 20% of the rates base of Offaly County Council. The Government recognises that this is a significant portion of the rates income of the local authority, particularly against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic and financial impact it has had on ratepayers generally. In recognition of this, I have announced that funding of €1.7m will be provided to Offaly County Council in 2022 in respect of the rates that would otherwise have been levied on the Shannonbridge plant.
