KENNY WELCOMES LEGISLATION EXEMPTING LOCAL SPORTS CLUBS FROM COMMERCIAL RATES ON NON-PROFIT BUILDINGS

Posted on September 24, 2014 2:59 PM   |   Permanent Link   

Dublin Bay North Labour TD Sean Kenny has welcomed the announcement that the Government has agreed to proceed with legislation to exempt local sports clubs from paying commercial rates on the non-profit parts of their building.

"This is something that has been discussed on an ongoing basis among Labour Party public representatives and with Labour Party Ministers, and I am very pleased at this development. I know from conversations I have had with people in clubs across our community, that the rating system up to now, has not been reflective of the voluntary nature of the work that goes on in our sports clubs. I believe that the legislation will address this in a meaningful way."

"Exempting the non-licensed, non-profit making part of a club building from rates is hugely significant, and will reduce the overall rates bill of clubs. It will free up vital funds within clubs which can now be channelled into buying new equipment, improving facilities or encouraging new members to join."

"Local sports clubs and organisations play a vital role in binding communities together, and often they do so on miniscule budgets. The Government has clearly listened to and considered the views of these cash-strapped clubs, and recognises their need for financial relief at this time."

"It is another indication of how Labour in Government is working hard to give back to local communities as the economy recovers, and I hope the knock-on effect will be an increase in participation in sports among young people, and I will be working hard to make sure that this legislation progress through the Oireachtas as quickly as possible."