'Families are being pushed beyond what they can reasonably bear' as domestic rates rise again

Aontú representative for East Derry and Deputy Leader Gemma Brolly has criticised the decision by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to raise domestic rates by a further 3.35% for 2026/27, warning that families are being pushed beyond what they can reasonably bear.

She also noted that the increase did not even go to a vote, as no councillor voiced dissent during the meeting - meaning the rise passed without challenge.

Mrs Brolly said the latest rise brings the total increase in domestic rates to over 33% in the past decade.

“That is a staggering jump for ordinary households, especially at a time when food, fuel and mortgage costs have already soared,” she said.

While the Council has quoted an 'average' increase of around £20 a year, Mrs Brolly says this figure is 'deeply misleading'.

“The so called ‘average household’ is based on a very low capital value. Many homes across this borough will see increases closer to £70, £80 or even £90 this year. Ratepayers deserve honesty about the real impact.”

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Oliver Mc Mullan said: “As a Council we are committed to ensuring residents have value for money, hence we have worked hard to deliver this below inflation District Rate increase of 3.35%. 

“During 2026 residents of Causeway Coast and Glens will continue to benefit from Council investment with projects such as the exciting and sustainably built new Ballycastle Leisure Centre nearing completion – an investment of £16.4 million.

“The small rates increase will help ensure services across our Council area continue to be maintained, including frontline operations and continued investment in the services and facilities that matter to our residents.”

However, Mrs Brolly has highlighted the growing frustration among residents who feel they are paying more while receiving less.

“Our roads have never been in worse condition. Rural transport is unreliable and households are now expected to buy their bins from the Council - something that was provided free of charge ten years ago. People are asking a very fair question: what exactly are we paying more for?”

She added that the rise comes at a time when families are still struggling with the highest inflation in decades.

“Food inflation alone hit almost 20% at its peak. Families have absorbed year after year of rising costs. A 33% increase in rates over ten years is simply not sustainable.”

Mrs Brolly also pointed to the approach taken by central government, noting that while Sinn Féin's Minister for Finance performed a welcome U turn on business rates, ordinary households have not been afforded the same consideration. Both the district rate and the regional rate have been increased - meaning people here are being hit twice.

Mrs Brolly called for greater transparency and accountability from the Council.

“Before asking households for more money, the Council must demonstrate where efficiencies have been made, how waste has been reduced, and what value ratepayers are actually receiving. People deserve better than annual increases with no improvement in services.”

She concluded: “I will continue to stand up for ratepayers across Causeway Coast and Glens. Families cannot keep carrying the burden of poor financial management and declining services. Enough is enough.”

Meanwhile, Mid Ulster District Council has approved a rate increase of 3.4% for both domestic and non-domestic properties.

They say the decision reflects a careful balance between setting a sustainable budget and minimising the impact on ratepayers through continued efficiency savings and prudent financial management.

They say for residents, this means continued investment in community wellbeing, including support for local sports clubs, community groups and events that bring people together and strengthen civic pride across towns and villages.