A SECTION in the new Local Government Act Bill could potentially provide an end to the ongoing problem of the closure of Dunnes’ Stores in Rafter Street, according to local Town Councillor, James Browne.

Cllr. Browne, a local Fianna Fáil councillor, pointed out a new section of the Bill that stated that empty premises brandishing a For Sale sign would get a 50% rebate on rates. This is a marked decrease from the previous 100% rebate and Cllr. Browne believes that this could encourage the letting of the big premises on Rafter Street.

The issue is a long-running one in the Town Council. Cllr. Browne stated that the company had a large number of empty premises around the country and this new move could end up costing thousands.

“There could, hopefully, be an end in sight to this saga, with this new move.”

However, he said that provision should be made for people who were genuinely in trouble, commenting that people with properties, for example, in areas that weren’t strong rental markets should be given a six-month grace period.

“If they amend it so that it won’t penalise the smaller landlords who are trying their best then I’m happy with the new section.”