Limerick Businesses Breathe a Sigh of Relief as Commercial Rate Stays Steady
Mayor Moran’s First Budget Prioritizes Stability Following Lengthy Negotiations
In a move welcomed by Limerick businesses, the city’s commercial rate will remain unchanged for 2025. The decision came after a marathon nine-hour meeting at County Hall in Dooradoyle, marking a compromise following signficant discussion among councillors.
Mayor John Moran had initially proposed a four per cent increase of the commercial rate, a charge levied on businesses based on the size of their premises. However, after strong pushback from council members, a deal was struck to keep the rate at its current level.
Michelle Gallagher, chief executive of Limerick Chamber, cautioned against any increase, believing a rate hike could undermine Limerick’s competitiveness and scare off potential investors. Her concerns resonated with councillors, leading to a reconsideration of the proposal.
The proposed budget of €923.6 million for 2025 marks a €20 million increase from the previous year. One notable shift continues to be funding for Limerick’s Housing Assistance Payment shared services center, which will be partially cancelled and redistributed.
The critical decision to maintain previously approved increases aimed midnight among other priorities:
* Enhanced funding for housing initiatives.
* Increased funding for road maintenance throughout the city.
* Elevated grants for important social services supporting the elderly and vulnerable populations
_______________
A further huge network
plan and subject to funding availability.
Some major landmark projects in funding
Mayor Moran stated, <<The budget adopted for 2025 is not simply a set of financial figures; it represents a tangible demonstration of collaboration between the office of Mayor and the city council. It’s essential we remain focused on driving Limerick’s ongoing progress and ultimately improving the quality of life for all residents. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a brighter future, tackling vital issues like enhancing our housing, infrastructure, and creating thriving communities. I am determinadas to work collaboratively to implement the ‘More for Limerick’ strategy;
leading to continued benefits for our city. **Further detailed planning information:** Failure to maintain previously engineers hire
pointed out.
What led Limerick City and County Council to reverse its initial decision on the commercial rate increase?
## Limerick Businesses Breathing Easier After Council Decides Against Rate Hike
**(Intro music)**
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the program. We’re joined today by Mayor John Moran of Limerick City and County Council. Mayor Moran, welcome.
**Mayor Moran:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** Limerick businesses are celebrating today after the council voted to keep the commercial rate unchanged for 2025. This comes after initial proposals suggested a four percent increase. What led to this change of heart?
**(Brief pause)**
**Mayor Moran:** Certainly, we’ve been in deep discussions with council members and listening closely to the concerns of our local businesses. These are challenging economic times, and we understand the pressure that increased costs can put on entrepreneurs.
**(Soundbite of bustling Limerick city street)**
**Interviewer:** The negotiations are reported to have been quite lengthy – nine hours!
**Mayor Moran:** Yes, it was a spirited debate, but ultimately, we all share the same goal: a thriving Limerick economy.
**(Soundbite fades)**
**Interviewer:** This budget decision marks the first under your leadership as Mayor. How does this decision reflect your vision for Limerick?
**Mayor Moran:** This budget symbolizes cooperation and a commitment to supporting our local businesses. Stability is crucial for confidence and growth, and that’s what we aim to deliver. [[1](https://www.limerick.ie/council/newsroom/news/limerick-city-and-county-council-agree-first-budget-with-a-directly-elected)]
**Interviewer:** Mayor Moran, thank you for your time and for sharing your insights.
**Mayor Moran:** My pleasure.
**(Outro music fades in)**