Unnamed developers in Cork owe the local council over €14m, a newspaper has revealed.

Despite repeated appeals to do so, Cork County Manager, Martin Riordan has refused to name the developers, according to the Corkman report.

"It's our intention to collect the charges, even though it might take longer than usual," said Mr Riordan.

"We will have to be more active in taking enforcement action. It's our intention to collect fully what's owed to our organisation."

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Details of the arrears emerged following a motion tabled by Fianna Fail Councillor, Danny Crowley. As of 31st September, 2009 outstanding monies totalled €14,485,548.

"Maybe developers could give property in lieu of what they owe. I wouldn't like to see developers getting off with this," said Councillor Crowley.

However, this suggestion was dismissed by Mr Riordan, who insists the council demand that any outstanding debt is paid back in full.

Mr Riordan confirmed that instalment arrangements have been put in place with some of the debtors and a total of €5,762,906 could be recouped in this manner. He also said that the development charges that were paid in full up to September 2009 totalled €8,836,372.

Director of Planning Services, John O'Neill confirmed the collapse of income from development charges, with €59m accrued in 2007, €37.5m in 2008 and only €9m last year.

(NS/BMcC)