£7m in previous year rates arrears
Statistics released by Finance Minister Sammy Wilson show last year’s ratepayer debt stood at 6,808,723.
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Hide AdAcross Northern Ireland the total amount of debt was 112,783,239.
Mr Wilson explained the figures referred to previous years’ debt and did not take account of in-year rates arrears.
He advised: “At any point in time, the total amount of ratepayer debt comprises two elements: the previous years’ ratepayer debt; and in-year debt.
“At 26 September 2010, the previous years’ ratepayer debt of 157 million at 31 March 2010 had been reduced to 113 million.
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Hide Ad“It is difficult to quantify in-year ratepayer debt given that, as part of normal business, bills are issued and paid on a daily basis.”
He stressed that the collection of all rates due remains a very high priority for Land & Property Services, and rigorous pursuit of outstanding debt continues.