Fine Gael Call For Commercial Rate Freeze

Freezing commercial rates would benefit business in Ireland, Fine Gael has said, as it outlined its election manifesto.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Employment, Richard Bruton said that while some councils and local authorities have already tackled commercial rates, a stronger incentive is needed to revive many of the town centres around the country.

"Fine Gael is committed to offering businesses better opportunities to expand and create jobs. Our Councillors will freeze commercial rates, lowering them where possible, now that the public finances are in better shape and there is some growth in the economy," Minister Bruton said.

He added: "A stable or reduced rates regime will also give some incentive for using premises which are now vacant, and this is another core theme of our local election platform. We think that this is a good way of doing it, and Fine Gael candidates can be relied upon to make sure this happens, if they are elected."

(MH/JP)