The Taoiseach's predecessor gave a firm commitment that one of the Government's top priorities would be to introduce new legislation to deal with how commercial rates are calculated and charged. Addressing a public meeting in my constituency, a Government member reassured worried retailers that such legislation would be in place by the end of this year on the basis that the new revaluation process is due to kick in on 1 January 2018. In Longford-Westmeath, 54% of retail businesses have experienced increases in rates, some in excess of 400%. Changes in shopping patterns, including online shopping and out-of-town shopping centres, are presenting serious challenges to retailers. The Government speaks about sustainable job creation in rural areas. When will it introduce legislation to ensure we have a fair and equitable way of charging commercial rates? Rates are a major burden on many small retailers and businesses, not only in Longford-Westmeath but throughout the jurisdiction.

The heads of the Bill have been agreed and it is intended that they will go to pre-legislative scrutiny in committee during this session. While I cannot predetermine the outcome of the committee's deliberations, the legislation will go to committee for consideration in this session.