Published: Wednesday, 6th January, 2010 4:30pm

Shaw calls for rate reduction to support local jobs

Fine Gael Cllr Alan Shaw has called for a reduction in rates for 2010, despite the fact that the town council executive has recommended a rates freeze in the budget, which is due to be discussed by councillors next Tuesday.

According to Cllr Shaw, the cost of goods and services fell by an average of 5.7% in the year to November 2009 as set out in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

"The cost of living has been in a downward spiral since January 2009 and put simply there is no logical reason why commercial rates should not follow this trend. We may not achieve a cut of 5% in 2010 as there are a number of significant projects and festivals being undertaken by the council and local organisations this year. These projects must be supported and they will add greatly to the vitality of the town in 2010 and into the future," said Cllr Shaw.

He added that he will be scrutinising the figures in the council budget very closely and he is confident that a reduction in rates can be achieved.

"I work closely with the business community and I understand the pressure under which traders are operating on a day to day basis. It is important to understand that if the commercial rates are to remain at the same level as they were in 2009, that this is in effect an increase as the CPI is clearly telling us that the economy has been shrinking since January 2009. This would be an unacceptable position for the council to take in my view," he said.

Cllr Shaw added: "In effect, we are talking about jobs and it is my view that preserving jobs should be at the core of this year's budget."

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