Sinn Fein welcome zero rates movement

Cllr Cara McShane said: “Sinn Féin has been to the fore in ensuring that the rates in Moyle Council will not be increased in 2011/12. We put forward proposals several months ago in preparation for striking the rates, aimed at making efficiencies within departments whilst ensuring that frontline services within Council are protected.

“During these times of economic austerity and financial hardship, we believe that it is vital that the ratepayers of Moyle are not burdened with additional financial pressure.

“This year we were faced with many requests for financial assistance from the sporting, voluntary and community sectors, who contribute positively to the fabric of our community life throughout Moyle. We have therefore set-up a Social Inclusion fund within the Council for groups to apply for funding under a set criteria. This will ensure a much fairer and equal distribution of Council resources throughout the district.

“We have striven to protect and enhance the Council’s Tourism budget as we acknowledge the contribution of the Tourism industry; it is the life-line to creating jobs and growing the economy throughout Moyle.”

Sinn Fein councillor Oliver McMullan added: “As my colleague has said, it was Sinn Féin who, for a second year in a row, has ensured that the rates are kept as low as possible without severely affecting the services council provides.

“It is imperative that we as elected representatives, who are ultimately accountable to the ratepayers, prove that Local Government plays an active role in alleviating financial hardship during these austere times.

“After May, when we hopefully will have received a renewed and strengthened mandate, Sinn Féin will continue to push for the use of council funds to benefit the many as opposed to the few, and will return again to the issue of leisure provision in the council area. Anyone who wants more information on the workings out of the rates are welcome to contact any of my council colleagues, myself or our office on 276 57198.”