A SOUTH Wexford businessman is refusing to pay rates in protest over the huge hike in price for fingerpost signs, which he said are the only way that most people can find his bar and restaurant.
Gerry Meyler, owner of the Millhouse Bar and Restaurant in Tacumshane, had erected seven signs at crossroads in the rural area directing people to his premises. However, they were all removed by the county council after he refused to pay the increased fee, which jumped from €50 a sign to €630 a sign under new regulations introduced by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for commercial enterprises.
‘The signs cost €200 each to buy in 2007 and we paid the county council a €350 annual fee, which I had no problem paying, but now the bill is €4,410. I said I can’t pay that and pay rates at the same time – it’s not on.”
He said he owed the local authority €8,400 in rates from last year, which has resulted in the county council taking a case against him, which is due before Wexford District Court.
“I’ve always discharged my liabilities, but I’m in the sticks and the problem is I need these signs to get people in. There’s a labyrinth of roads out here and the signs have worked effectively in the past.”
Mr Meyler said trade has been down recently as some of his regulars have lost their jobs in the construction industry.
“Then there’s the fear factor as well with people holding on to their money, I’d be worried about what will happen in May when the Budget measures hit home.
“Businesses are under severe pressure at the moment and I only want a slice of the cake. There are other restaurants here in a similar position. There’s nobody listening to the business community. The Government have their heads in the sand and are not engaged with reality at all,” he said.