358 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, following his recent meeting with local representatives, he plans to approve the waiver system for rates proposed by Carrick-on-Suir Town Council, County Tipperary; his plans to facilitate similar schemes nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2151/11]

I am aware of the request from Carrick-on-Suir Town Council for a rates waiver scheme for new businesses. The issue of rates waiver schemes is complex as by their very nature such schemes favour certain elements or sectors of the rate-paying community over others and place them at a competitive advantage. I have concerns that any such scheme would have repercussions on existing businesses in the area and have implications for EU competition rules. Due to the complex nature of the proposal, any application for a rates waiver scheme requires careful consideration. I hope to be in a position to make a final decision on the application from Carrick-on-Suir Town Council shortly.