On section 3, subsection 7 (d), there are small industries outside the designated areas in country places which could well do with the remission of rates. I am agreeable to give the Minister the Bill tonight if the Labour Party are agreeable, but at a later stage the Minister might think about giving permission to local authorities to grant remission of rates outside designated areas. This power is something they should have. They should not use it, of course, where it is not necessary but I am thinking of several small industries that I know outside the designated areas which could well do with this, particularly in their formative years.
Committee on Finance. - Industrial Development Bill, 1972: Committee and Final Stages.
Sections 1 and 2 agreed to.
SECTION 3.
I can give consideration to this when I am going to the Seanad.
I could give the Minister an instance of one industry which has had quite a difficult time in its formative period and could do with that.
On the other hand, I am always under pressure about extending the undeveloped areas. This is a very serious step to take because it means picking out an area for special attention and consequentially, perhaps, neglecting another area. I would not like to say that I will make provision for this in the Seanad but I can have a look at it and see what are the objections to it. If one were to give local authorities this power there would perhaps be an escalation of difficulties in various areas. Is the Deputy suggesting that every local authority should get this power?
Yes, I am, in respect of small industries only or industries that receive a small industries grant. The Minister could say that local authorities in all areas have the right to give that remission of rates in the formative years but only to the industries that were small grant-aided industries. I think that would be restrictive enough to keep it out of trouble. I know of a few where that would be a great help. Before the Minister goes to the Seanad I could write him a letter indicating in private one in particular that I am thinking of as an example.
Will the Deputy accept that I shall have a look at it in that context?
Yes, indeed. I accept his responsibility as Minister completely.
Question put and agreed to.
Section 4 agreed to.
Bill reported without amendment, received for final consideration and passed.
The Dáil adjourned at 10.20 p.m. until 10.30 a.m. on Thursday, 18th May, 1972.