Press release in advance of rates process
Nicholl – Councils must provide value for money and avoid rates hikes Ballymena Ulster Unionist Councillor Stephen Nicholl has warned against councils increasing rates bills for local people and businesses, and of the importance of using public funds wisely to provide value for money. Councillor Nicholl said: “This week’s assessment of the budgetary crisis facing Northern Ireland should leave us in no doubt that an ever increasing financial burden could fall on local citizens. With inflation outstripping pay awards and some touting the return of prescription charges, rent increases and the implementation of welfare reform potentially driving more families into poverty, there is no doubt that local government faces considerable challenges in setting this year's local and business rates. “While council costs will rise, passing on that burden to an already impoverished population is not an easy option. Indeed, councils should be care