Minister Simon Harris welcomes exemption benefitting up to 1000 not-for-Profit Childcare providers

Today (20-November) in Seanad Eireann Minister Simon Harris welcomed agreement to introduce an exemption from rates for not-for-profit community childcare providers.

This amendment, proposed by the Minister of State to the Valuation (Amendment)(No.2) Bill 2012, was agreed at Report Stage in the Seanad today.  Noting the agreement Minster Harris commented,

This amendment was proposed following in-depth consultation and consideration, and recognises the importance of such not-for-profit services to the fabric of local communities and wider society

The exemption is being provided for in the Valuation (Amendment)(No.2) Bill 2012, and will exempt up to 1,000 Community Childcare providers from liability for commercial rates.

This exemption will regularise the application of commercial rates for not-for-profit and charitable providers of childcare which represent approximately 30% of the sector.  Significant direct support is provided to all childcare and early education providers particularly through the free pre-school year scheme.

The Bill will continue through the Houses of the Oireachtas with a view to enactment early in the New Year.

Ends