£7m in previous year rates arrears

Statistics released by Finance Minister Sammy Wilson show last year’s ratepayer debt stood at 6,808,723.

The equivalent figures for Limavady and Strabane were 1,429,007 and 1,510,064 respectively.

Across 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.

“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.