Traders’ association welcomes rate freeze

“Our members will welcome this announcement from Finance Minister Simon Hamilton that business rates are to be effectively frozen for the next year. This builds upon 15 local councils striking zero per cent rates increase and three councils actually reducing business rates,” said NIIRTA Chief Executive, Glyn Roberts.

“At this early stage of economic recovery it is vital that every level of government keeps all forms of taxation at their lowest to enable local traders to grow their businesses.

“In recent years we have made steady progress on rates, with the successful introduction of the Small Business and Empty Premises Rates Relief Schemes. We need to keep building upon this progress to secure our local economic recovery.”