Donegal County Council say they have received a very positive response to the recent initial letters issued to those who have not yet paid the NPPR charge.
The demand letters were issued to a number of individuals who the Council identified as being liable but who had not yet paid the charge.
The Council is permitted under Section 11 of the Local Government Act 2011 to examine data from external agencies to assist in identifying such properties.
The Council said that this work is ongoing and that it expects further non-compliant property owners to be identified in the coming months as a result of this work.
The 2012 NPPR charge which was introduced by the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 was due by the 30th June and anyone who has not paid the charge is now accruing late payment fees on a monthly basis.
Substantial penalties and a possible court fine awaits anyone found in breach of the legislation according.
Commenting on the importance that this revenue has on the Council’s capacity to continue to provide local services, Garry Martin, Director of Finance has again stressed the need for all outstanding payments to be made.
“We thank everyone who has responded to date and paid the due charges. We would also take this opportunity of thanking all those who have renewed the charge this year.
“Anyone who has not made contact with the Council is urged to do so immediately to arrange payment and to avoid further action being taken.
“The Council is intent on pursuing, using all means available, any non compliant householders in the coming weeks and months.
“We would urge people to avoid the punitive penalties associated with this charge by paying at this point in time.”
It is expected that the 2012 Charge will yield up to €4 million for Donegal County Council in 2012 when all renewals have been processed. Over €12m has been collected in Donegal since the introduction of the charge.
Further information can be found at www.nppr.ie or by contacting your local Public Services Centre.