Sugden questions Minister on rates evaluation

Independent MLA Claire sugden says that rates evaluation continues to a ‘significant issue’ within the East Londonderry constituency.

This week, she questioned SDLP MLA, Mark H Durkan, the DoE Minister on the issue.

“I have been contacted by many people who are deeply concerned about the process by which new rate figures have been worked out,” explained Sugden.

“This week, in an oral question, I again asked the Minister to provide a scoring mechanism for revaluating rates.

“I was disappointed that the Minister was still not forthcoming with an answer to the question, but instead pointed individuals in the direction of an appeal. To me, the number of appeals which have been received is a clear indication that there has been grave errors in the process.

“I have spoken with the Department, who have informed me that there is no deadline to appeal a rates bill, however the process can take up to three months for domestic properties, and up to six for a business property.

“I will continue to seek clarity from the Minister about the process of Reval2015, however I encourage anyone who feels their rate revaluation may be wrong, to appeal it. My office can assist by providing and helping to fill in forms.”