COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, May 12, 2008
MOTION NO. 7
MOTION: Councillor E. Tuffy
That the Manager would, in so far as it is within the power of the Council as distinct to the Valuation Office, review the position of the Council in regard to the levying of commercial rates on childcare/creche businesses, having regard to the need to support the provision of affordable childcare services to families, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
REPORT:
In relation to childcare facilities, there are 94 such facilities which have been given a valuation and rated in South Dublin County Council’s administrative area. Following the revaluation process 9 had their rates decreased, 63 were increased while a total of 22 had not been rated prior to 2008.
Commercial rates account for 42% of the Council’s income. In relation to the childcare area this would amount to € 520,000.00 in 2008.
In relation to the councillor’s request in the Motion to review the position of the Council with regard to the levying of commercial rates on childcare / crèche businesses, the Council is greatly dependant on the revenue generated from such rates and any change in relation to the amount to be collected would have a serious effect on the Council’s income.
It should be noted however that there is an appeal process available to those who were not satisfied with their revaluation and in this regard approximately 30% of the childcare facilities within this Council’s administrative area have appealed to the Commissioner of Valuation.
A presentation in relation to the revaluation process was given by a representative from the Valuation Office to the Organisation & Procedures Committee on the 20th March 2008. It was agreed at that meeting to invite the Minister to meet the members discuss the impact of the revaluation process has had on rates for childcare facilities within South Dublin County Council’s administrative area.