Targeted measures aimed at reducing costs will deliver certainty and much needed relief for small businesses across South Dublin, a Fine Gael Minister has said. Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Emer Higgins has confirmed that a new business support package has been announced by Fine Gael colleagues, Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment Peter Burke, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Patrick O’Donovan.
The new package includes a range of measures, targeted specifically at reducing costs for small businesses across the country, including in South Dublin. Minister Higgins has welcomed the new supports and says they will be a significant help for local small and medium sized enterprises. “This package is very welcome news and comes at a time where businesses have faced increased costs due to inflation, energy increases and rising labour costs.
“I know the Increased Cost of Business Grant was already very well received by businesses here in South Dublin, so it is great to see it re-opened for new registrations, as well as the announcement that a second payment will be made to all businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors, as we recognise that they are the businesses most exposed to increased costs. This will mean a further payment of up to €5,000 will be available to all such businesses, paid directly into their bank accounts. “It is also really positive to see energy grants increased, so that any business in Dublin which wants to upgrade their equipment to ensure better energy efficiency and lower bills will now only have to pay 25%, with the Department providing a 75% grant of up to €10,000. Equipment covered includes heating or lighting upgrades, new refrigeration units, electric ovens and industrial dishwashers.”
Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke said after engaging with businesses across the country that he understands the issues they are facing and is committed to providing further support.
“When the Taoiseach was elected recently, he said he wanted to prioritise our small businesses, and we have seen that Fine Gael has delivered on this. Businesses need certainty and some much-needed relief, and I will continue to engage with our cafes, our butchers, our hairdressers, our pub-owners and our corner shop enterprises. These are the backbone of our local economy and provide much valued employment up and down this country.” “Today is a positive day for small businesses, and we will continue to meet with and talk to all sectors ahead of the Budget later this year.” Minister Burke concluded.
