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O’Loan urges Minister to scrap credit card option for paying rates

SDLP Finance Spokesperson Declan O’Loan has called on the Finance Minister not to introduce a credit card option for people paying rates due to the excessive costs and risk of debt that this creates for consumers.

Wed 10th March

The North Antrim MLA said: “When people use credit cards to pay their rates there is a 2% handling charge, which on average amounts to a £15 sting in the tail for consumers (as they average rates bill for Northern Ireland is £736).
 
“It is much better for people to opt to use their debit card instead as there is no charge for this payment method.
 
“Although credit cards seem like a good option for people paying their rates, as they many not have money readily available due to the tough financial climate, their interest rates are at a twelve year high and they can create long-term difficulties for many consumers resulting in a mountain of debt.
 
“This often hidden handling fee for credit card users is costing those who are struggling most in our society.
 
“I would therefore urge the Finance Minister Sammy Wilson to scrap the credit card option for paying rates. Our consumers deserve better.”

Declan O'Loan

Councillor Declan O'Loan

Email declanoloan@gmail.com
Tel 07764 220 533

Press Office

Tel 028 90 52 1837

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