No increase in commercial rates is a welcome respite

NO INCREASE in commercial rates this year is a welcome respite for local businesses facing a multitude of rising costs, according to South Dublin Chamber Deputy President Thomas Stone.

In a message to members, Mr Stone said the announcement by South Dublin County Council in their annual Budget that they were increasing investment in infrastructure in the county but not commercial rates was timely for the business community.

The Annual Rate of Valuation (ARV) for South Dublin County in 2024 is 0.276.

“This is welcome news with so many other costs increasing including energy, labour, and distribution costs,” said Stone.

“Forecasts predicting the level of inflation will fall during the year are welcome from its current level of 3.2 per cent. It still needs to fall further to sustain competitiveness in the economy.

Referring to the proposed MetroLink project which will “long-term” make a significant difference to transport in Dublin, Mr Stone believes an outer ring road for Dublin needs to be under

“active consideration.”

“For many the M50 conjures up feelings of frustration and dismay as it was originally intended as an outer ring road but has long lost that function and today is the country’s most important and congested road.”

In more positive news, Mr Stone said employment is growing and encourages members to look locally when recruiting, noting supports and incentives  that are available in some cases for return to work schemes.

“The year ahead is looking good for our members. Economic activity continues to normalize with positive growth forecasts, GDP is expected to rise and Modified Domestic Demand is growing by 2.2 per cent in 2024. What helps all members is when we help each other so pleases use our online marketplace to promote your business and please invite fellow members to offer you a quote or a cost for a product or service,” said Mr Stone.