Mayo business to benefit from new support package

Businesses across the county will benefit from a new business support package announced by the Department of Enterprise today.

The new package includes a range of measures, targeted specifically at reducing costs for small businesses across the country, including in Mayo.

Michael Ring TD welcomed the supports and said that the targeted measures aimed at reducing costs will deliver certainty and much needed relief for small and medium businesses across Mayo.

“It is also really positive to see energy grants increased, so that any business in Mayo 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,” he said.

Additionally, it was announced that the ICOB scheme will reopen for all businesses for a further 14 days.

The extension came alongside the comprehensive range of business supports announced today.

Minister Dara Calleary said he was ‘delighted’ to confirm the extension and urged all eligible businesses to apply for the grant.

“I’m acutely aware of the ongoing increased costs facing small and medium-sized businesses. These supports will significantly help local businesses who are struggling with increased costs,” he stated.

Mr Ring commented: “...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”

Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke, said after engaging with businesses across the country, he ‘understands’ the issues they are facing and is committed to providing further support.

“When the Taoiseach was elected four weeks ago, he said he wanted to prioritise our small businesses, and we have seen today that Fine Gael has delivered on this. Businesses need certainty and some much-needed relief, and I will continue to engage with our cafés, 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.