asked the Minister for Local Government what is the total sum collected in rates by all local authorities in Ireland for the years ended 31st March, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959 and 1960.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Collection of Rates.
39.
As the reply is in the form of a tabular statement, I propose with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to circulate it with the Official Report.
Following is the statement:
|
Year ended 31st March |
Total amount of Rates Collected |
|
£ |
|
|
1956 |
17,745,826 |
|
1957 |
19,700,132 |
|
1958 |
20,076,845 |
|
1959 |
20,560,995 |
|
1960 |
21,411,861 |
The figure for the year ended 31st March 1960 is subject to audit.
40.
asked the Minister for Local Government how many ratepayers in the city and county of Dublin pay their rates monthly direct to the respective rates offices; and if he will make an order granting all ratepayers the same privileges.
I have no information in regard to the matter raised in the first part of the question. As regards the second part of the question, there is nothing to prevent a local authority, in collaboration with their rate collectors, from devising a scheme for the payment of rates by instalments. Since, however, some doubt still appears to exist as to the power of local authorities to operate such schemes, I am arranging to have a circular letter issued to all rating authorities drawing their attention to the powers provided by Article 73 of the Public Bodies Order, 1946, and suggesting that consideration might be given to the formulation of schemes for the payment of rates by instalments which could be introduced in relation to the financial year commencing on 1st April next and future years.