The Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council says huge efforts will be made to resolve the ongoing row over rates increases in Ennis and Kilrush.
Dozens of people packed the public gallery for last night's monthly Council meeting, which was suspended for a time by Counicillor James Breen due to what he later described as heckling.
Last night's monthly meeting of Clare County Council was its first scheduled meeting since the decision to hike rates in Ennis by 5.7% and by nearly 9% in Kilrush.
There was standing room only in the public gallery, but the meeting was suspended for a time by Cathaoirleach James Breen before an agreement that talks would be held between businesses and the Council.
Ennis Chamber is calling for a reversal of the rates increase, or failing this an extension of the rates incentive scheme, reduced parking prices and the creation of a 'Town Team' to advance pro-jobs initiatives.
Bob Lyne of the Auburn Lodge Hotel says many businesses are struggling as it is.
The Mayor of Ennis was one of a number of councillors who voted against the rise in rates at the council's budget meeting.
Councillor Pat Daly believes the rates increase should be spread out over a nine year period.
