Fears some Kilkenny retailers may be pushed 'over the edge' as rates increase

Kilkenny Chamber CEO, John Hurley has expressed some concern over the decision by Kilkenny County Council to increase commercial rates locally, fearing it may push some retailers 'over the edge'.

Last week, the local authority unanimously adopted a proposed budget which will avoid any cuts to core services, but lead to the increased rates.

Although the Council will boost funding for many core services without cuts, the raised expenditure will be partly financed by a 4% hike in commercial rates for businesses. - READ MORE DETAILS HERE

"We are mindful of the many other costs that businesses have been having to cope with in terms of increased energy costs, increased wages, introduction of auto enrolment pensions etc," Mr Hurley commented.

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"Many businesses simply cannot take another hit like the imposition of a commercial rates increase as announced and many businesses are only barely hanging on and these increases may push some of them over the edge.

"Now more than ever before, businesses need the support of the local community so our message is very clear," Mr Hurley continued.

"We encourage every Kilkenny person to support local businesses by doing their Christmas shopping locally and Employers can help this hugely by making the new Kilkenny Gift Card their card of choice when rewarding their staff this Christmas."

Overall, the budget has a total expenditure of €129.4m, an increase of €8.9m (7.4%) from the previous year.

The majority of increased Council spending will be utilised in its housing budget, which is rising by almost 20% to €36.9m. An outcome Mr Hurley and the Chamber has cautiously welcomed.

"This is essential to support economic development and address the housing needs of our growing population. Businesses need employees and employees need homes so the investment in housing must reflect this dynamic," he continued.

"We have also consistently called for increased spending in infrastructural projects and the proposed increases in expenditure on roads) increase by 5.4% to €33m), amenities (surging by 8.5% to €10.2m park) and public spaces (a 10.3% boost) is welcome in this context." 

More Reaction in this week's Kilkenny People...

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