• ABOUT US
• STRUCTURE
• AIMS / GOALS
• STAFF
• STRATEGY

History
NIMFG was formed some two years ago, when the government first suggested the introduction of industrial rates.  Despite extensive lobbying, the Northern Ireland Assembly and Westminster decided to introduce industrial rates, but allowed a two year honeymoon period followed by a gradual introduction of the rates over a five year period. 

April 2005, saw the first rates bills arrive on the doorstep.  Many businesses unaware of the consultation process were caught unprepared.   The arrival of the rates demand has concentrated minds.  Those businesses which were aware of the scheme concluded that the initiative could not be stopped and have started to make provision to move out of Northern Ireland. 

But others have successfully opposed the measure
The government have offered the Freight industry rate relief to the tune of 75%, that is they pay rates at only 25%, declaring that this is not the time to be adding to the costs of business in Northern Ireland.

Window of Opportunity
We have a window of opportunity until Christmas 2006 to address this situation. 

Our Aims
Manufacturers are not against paying rates, we  already contribute huge sums to the government in the form of corporation tax, NI contributions and the tax of our employees, but if the rates are introduced in the current form there will be no industry left in Northern Ireland to tax.

We want the same deal as that offered to the Freight Industry.
We want to cap the rates on industrial premises at 25%.   If this is not achieved, the stream of businesses leaving Northern Ireland will become a flood.