Fianna Fáil is calling on Kildare County Council to consider rates concessions to be granted to retail main street properties where upstairs floors are used for residential use.

Mayor of Naas Cllr James Lawless said it would encourage more people to live on Ireland's main streets and said it would also help with the ongoing housing crisis.

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Cllr Lawless said: "I grew up above a shop myself where my father had a local business so I know the concept well. I believe this type of scheme may also contribute to the housing crisis by freeing up vacant space for residential accommodation in central locations. Ultimately the response from the Council was disappointing. Whilst the council could consider it, the scheme would have to be approved by the Minister for Local Government and no Minister since 1970 has approved any council rates schemes."

(CD/LM)