This is a very brief Bill of two sections. Its purpose is to extend for one year the period within which new buildings must be completed in order to obtain remission of rates under Section 12 of the Local Government Act, 1927. Originally the period ended on 1st October, 1930; but by subsequent Acts it was extended to 1st October, 1938. This Bill will extend it to 1st October, 1939. I thought some months ago I would be able to have a Bill dealing with this matter in a fuller way, amending the the Act of 1927 in certain directions, ready to introduce in the Oireachtas before now, but for a number of reasons the Bill was delayed. As there was some doubt in the minds of builders and people projecting new buildings, as to whether the Act of 1927, Section 12 in particular, still applied, I think it will clear people's minds, and make builders and others who propose to put up new buildings certain as to their position, if I introduce this short amending Bill.
Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 1939—Second Stage.
Question proposed: "That the Bill be now read a Second Time."
Does it also extend the section referring to alterations which are deemed to be new buildings and which may affect rates?
It extends to remission of rates only.
All sections in relation to the remission of rates?
It extends all sections in relation to remission of rates.
Question put and agreed to.
Leas-Chathaoirleach
When will the next stage be taken?
I should like to get all stages now if the House agrees.
Agreed.