Letter to the Editor: State must legislate for commercial sector rates

With the economic recession, compounded by greed and avarice on the part of some landlords, and the annual rates, many commercial concerns have closed while others struggle for financial survival. Rates are governed by legislation from 1838, 1852, and the act of 2001. Rateable valuation of each property is a major issue and not necessarily the rates in the euro.

It is vital, therefore, to listen to businesses — and to be active with the Valuation Office in getting properties revalued. For example, under the present system whereby a business closes and re-opens under new ownership, the new owner is liable for up to three years arrears. This is in no way a fair system.