Sports clubs in Ireland are now exempt from paying commercial rates on the non-profit parts of their building, it has been announced.

Labour Senator John Kelly welcomed the decision and said the exemptions will significantly reduce the rate bills of the clubs.

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He said: "To date, sports clubs were in a confusing position in that if they had a bar on their premises, they paid commercial rates on the entire premises, including parts of the building that were for non-profit purposes such as dressing rooms, and storage facilities.

"It will free up vital funds within clubs which can now be channelled into buying new equipment, improving facilities or encouraging new members to join."

(CD/JP)