asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is yet in a position to state when it is proposed to introduce legislation which will make the landlord responsible for inclusion and collection of rates, in the rents of small houses in the various towns and cities in the Saorstát.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - LANDLORDS' RESPONSIBILITY FOR COLLECTION OF RATES.
There appears to be considerable support amongst rating authorities for legislation to the effect indicated by the Deputy. The proposal takes the form of transferring liability for rates from the occupier to the landlord in cases where the valuation does not exceed £4. I have some doubt, however, as to whether the amount of valuation specified is now appropriate. It is intended to request the rating authorities for information as to their reason for adopting the figure of £4, and also to supply details as to the number of small ratings included in their lists.
Will the Minister say definitely what are the intentions of the Department in the matter? Does he remember that six or seven months ago he gave me practically a similar answer, and is he aware that considerable confusion prevails all over the country in this connection? Is he aware that although part of the rates are collected from the tenants in cities and towns a great many landlords refuse to pay even that part, as they consider that under the present law they are not called upon to collect the rates and pay them to the authorities?
I am quite aware that the situation is more or less as stated by the Deputy, but it should be clear that before bringing in any legislative measures I must have figures to go upon. At present we are held up, as there is considerable doubt whether the sum of £4 is enough or whether we should increase it to £8.
Would the Minister undertake to get into touch with the local authorities at once to ascertain their views in the matter?
I will undertake to do that.