This article is from page 14 of the 2013-04-09 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
MONEY set aside to improve broadband infrastructure may be used to make up the shortfall in commercial rates collected by Ennis Town Council, it has been revealed.
A provision of € 205,000 has been made in the council’s accounts to develop broadband services in Ennis under the Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) scheme.
However Town Manager Ger Dollard has indicated that the money may have to be used to make up shortfalls in the council’s revenue account for the 2014 budget
The council’s audited accounts for 2011 note that fina`ncial provisions, by way of revenue transfers to capital, were made to provide for: broadband (€ 205,000), Ennis environmental improvements (€ 34,800) and other balances (€ 40,000).
Mr Dollard states that the provi- sion under the heading of broadband relates to the matching contribution that is required for the Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) for Ennis. He adds, “This scheme has not to date been approved by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. The other balances referred to are reserved for particular projects that are at varying stages of progress.”
Mr Dollard told the council’s April meeting that the level of commercial rate collection has fallen as businesses experience difficult times.
He said councillors may have to consider using money set aside for broadband to cover any shortfall in the council’s revenue account.
Cllr Brian Meaney (GP) indicated his concern at the proposal, saying councilors must get an opportunity to discuss it beforehand. Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) proposed that the council consider investing in free wi-fi services for Ennis town centre.