Chambers Ireland urges moderation and consultation in setting commercial rates
10 November 2026
Chambers Ireland is calling on local authorities to exercise moderation in setting commercial rates for 2027 and to consult closely with local Chambers and business communities before finalising their budgets.
Representing more than 9,000 businesses across Ireland, Chambers Ireland has warned that substantial commercial rates increases would add to the pressure businesses already face from energy, labour, insurance, regulatory and other operating costs, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Speaking about the proposed increases, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, Ian Talbot, said:
“There are deep concerns across our network about the scale of commercial rates increases being considered in some areas. Chambers have reported that increases of between 5% and 15% have been discussed locally, while for others it’s the cumulative cost burden of year-on-year increases that are knocking business confidence. Increases on this scale would place additional strain on businesses at a time when many operating costs have already risen sharply and we are still awaiting progress on the recommendations from the Cost of Business Advisory Forum.”
“We recognise that local government is also under pressure to fund and deliver the housing, roads, transport and public realm infrastructure needed to support growing communities. We are very supportive of this work and want to be clear that we are not opposed to reasonable rates increases in principle. However, any increase must be proportionate and it should be introduced following meaningful consultation with the local business community.”
Chambers Ireland is also calling for greater transparency and earlier engagement in the local authority budget process. Many businesses finalise their budgets before councils agree their annual budgets in November, meaning that a substantial rates increase announced late in the year can undermine financial planning for the following year.
There is also a large discrepancy across the country in the approaches taken by different local authorities. Some introduce annual increases, while others opt for larger ad hoc adjustments every few years. The unpredictability of the budget process is an annual concern for local businesses.
Ian Talbot continued:
“Businesses need reasonable notice and a clear basis for any proposed change in commercial rates. Local Chambers are well placed to provide evidence on trading conditions and the likely impact on employers. They should be consulted early, while proposals can still be meaningfully considered.”
Chambers Ireland has consistently called for a broader and more sustainable funding model for local government, so that councils can provide essential services and infrastructure without placing a disproportionate burden on commercial ratepayers.
Ian Talbot concluded:
“Businesses understand that councils need adequate funding to provide essential local services. This cannot be disproportionately levied against commercial ratepayers without weakening employment and town-centre vitality. Moderation, early consultation and a more sustainable funding model are needed.”
ENDS