To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he has met with stakeholders in the Charity sector to discuss their concerns regarding proposed changes to the rates paid by charities.

As the Member is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the non-domestic rating system. The treatment of charity shops was an issue that various business organisations, district councils and many others commented on during the related consultation. One of the points identified through that process is the fact that we are the only part of the UK that fully exempts virtually all charity shops. In England, Wales and Scotland the majority pay 20% rates.

This is a sensitive matter and my officials are now in the process of thoroughly analysing the responses on this issue, alongside all the other issues that emerged from the consultation.

Any policy outcomes from the review on this subject, however, will be a matter for the new Executive in the next mandate and I can confirm that I will not be changing the policy in the meantime.

I have already met with Seamus McAleavey of NICVA and Robin Osterley from the Charity Retail Association and have another meeting with NICVA scheduled for 29 February.