West Clare Councillor Says Commercial Rates Increase Would Have Been 'Unsustainable' For Business

Clare FM

A Kilrush Councillor admits the decision to cut community funding in next year's budget was an extremely difficult one. Local representatives approved the Budget for 2023 yesterday afternoon, which was formulated on the basis that commercial rates would not be increased again, following the 3.8% rise approved last year. As a result, this has seen the General Municipal Allowance (GMA) for each district reduced overall by €264,000, while community grant aid funding has been reduced by 20%. Leas-Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District and Independent Councillor, Ian Lynch, says it was a sacrifice that had to be made.