Business groups call for shake-up of commercial rates

Commercial rates are based on an outdated system of “clauses, clichés, and constraints” that need reform, according to the boss of Cork Business Association.

Chief executive Lawrence Owens was responding to a survey of more than 1,600 businesses across the country by the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Isme), which found that three out of five small firms expect huge increases in commercial rates when they are next assessed.

According to the results of the survey, more than half will appeal against an increase in rates. Ulster businesses pay the most, averaging just over €20,000, while businesses in Leinster, excluding Dublin, pay just under €8,900. Dublin City businesses in isolation pay almost €10,500 and businesses in Munster pay €10,200, while businesses in Connacht pay €13,300 on average.