Photograph: Conor Ó Mearáin/Collins Photo AgencyChildminders should not have their homes assessed for commercial rates, Minister for Children Norma Foley has said. The Irish Times revealed last year that a childminder from Newbridge, Co Kildare had her house evaluated for commercial rates. Margaret Donohoe’s home was assessed by Tailte Éireann last October, who subsequently told her its evaluation had been passed on to Kildare County Council. Tailte Éireann is a State agency which falls under the remit of the Department of Housing. Commercial rates are property-based charges levied on commercial and industrial properties, providing a source of funding for local authorities.

Source: The Irish Times February 04, 2026 23:17 UTC