Delays in commercial rate appeals putting businesses at risk – Murphy

Businesses appealing their commercial rates are increasingly frustrated by lengthy wait times to have their cases heard, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Michael Murphy has discovered that as of January 1^st last, there are 998 appeals pending, with 679 of these dating back to 2023.

Deputy Murphy said: “This level of delay is simply unacceptable. I’ve been contacted by multiple ratepayers who are deeply frustrated at the lack of progress. Some businesses have been waiting more than two years for their appeal to be heard.”

According to the Tailte Éireann website, the organisation is tasked with providing up-to-date valuations for commercial and industrial properties on behalf of the State.

However, Deputy Murphy says the reality on the ground is very different: “Businesses across the country have made real, tangible changes to their premises to reduce their rates burden—some by downsizing, others appealing because of significantly reduced turnover. These are legitimate appeals, made in good faith, and they deserve a timely decision.

“Delays in processing appeals are putting the viability of many small and medium enterprises at risk. This is about fairness. Businesses can’t be expected to carry on paying inflated commercial rates based on outdated or inaccurate valuations while waiting years for an appeal. In many cases, they’re hanging on by a thread. The longer these appeals drag on, the greater the risk of permanent closure.

“Ireland’s commercial rates system only works if it is seen to be responsive and equitable. Right now, businesses don’t feel that’s the case. At a time when negotiations on trade and tariffs are acutely sensitive, we must ensure our own indigenous businesses are supported and not put at risk.”