Written Answers Nos. 603-627
603. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of businesses by county which have drawn down Covid-19 loans according to each loan type available in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6349/20]
View answerThe SBCI Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme opened for eligibility applications on 23 March. The scheme is offered by my Department in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The scheme is operated by the SBCI through participating finance providers. It currently makes available a fund of up to €200m to eligible businesses that have been negatively affected by impacts arising from the outbreak of Covid-19 to enable those businesses to innovate, change or adapt in response to the current business environment. Following my announcement on 8 April, this scheme is now being expanded to make available an additional €250m in lending, which will bring the total amount of lending available under this scheme to €450m.
There has been strong appetite for the scheme such that as of 10 May 2020, there have been a total of 2,118 applications received to the COVID-19 WCS, of which 2,017 candidates were eligible and 13 ineligible. 88 applications are currently in process. Of those, 189 loans have progressed to sanction to a total value of €33.03 million.
Based on data currently available, Table 1 of the attached document provides details of the first €21.26 million of loan approvals under this scheme by county. Due to the newness of the scheme, drawdown data is not yet available.
The Future Growth Loan Scheme makes up to €300 million of loans available with a term of 8-10 years and is operated by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) though participating lenders. We have seen strong demand for the scheme since its launch in April 2019, resulting in a rapid take up of the scheme.
As at 8 May 2020, the scheme has received 3,502 eligibility applications, with 3,327 approved, 160 currently in process and 16 deemed ineligible. The initial €300m funding for the FGLS scheme has been almost fully subscribed, supporting a significant level of strategic investment by businesses. One of the participating financial providers lenders has remaining capacity and businesses seeking loan approval are being directed towards this lender.
On 8 April 2020, I announced that this scheme would be expanded by a further €200m to facilitate longer-term lending to Covid-19-impacted businesses and my Department is working through the details of this expansion and will bring this funding to market as soon as possible.
Based on data available for the first €93.047 million of loans drawn down under the Future Growth Loan Scheme, 100% of these were by SMEs. Table 2 of the attached document provides details of €93.047 million worth of loans drawn down under this scheme on a per-county basis.
The Covid-19 Loan available from Microfinance Ireland (MFI) was introduced as a support to microenterprises to help them access funding during the Covid-19 crisis. Microenterprises are enterprises with less than ten employees.
These loans are available for eligible microenterprises responding to Covid-19-related difficulties, the negative impact of which must be a minimum of 15% of actual or projected income or profit. Loans up to €50,000 are available with terms that include a six months interest free and repayment free moratorium, with the loan to then be repaid over the remaining 30 months of the 36-month loan period. These loans are available at an interest rate of 4.5% to all micro-enterprises where the application is made through the Local Enterprise Network or referred by a bank or Local Development Committees. An interest rate of 5.5% is applied to loans which are sought directly from MFI.
Table 3 of the attached document provides a breakdown by county of loans sanctioned and drawn down under this scheme.
The Credit Guarantee Scheme is available to Covid-19 impacted businesses, it supports loans up to €1 million for periods of up to 7 years. The Scheme offers a partial Government guarantee of 80% to banks against losses on qualifying loans to eligible SMEs. The scheme is designed to support a range of debt products appropriate to the borrowing needs of SMEs. Term loans and other products such stocking facilities, performance bonds will be covered by the Scheme.
The interest rate charged on the loan will be the banks' SME lending rates. In addition, the borrower pays a premium which partially covers the cost of providing the guarantee. The premium can vary but is currently 0.5%. It may be possible to avail of between a three to six-month interest-only payment period, but this depends on the lender’s assessment of the application.
An application to access the Credit Guarantee Scheme can be made through one of the participating lenders which are currently Allied Irish Banks, Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank Ireland. The Scheme is operated by SBCI, the Department plays no role in the application or decision-making process, which, is fully delegated to the participating lenders. The Credit Guarantee Scheme facilitates guarantees up to a maximum of €150 million in any one year.
There have been no approved facilities arising from Covid-19 submitted to SBCI from financial providers.
On 2 May, Government also agreed a new €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme as a further development of the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme already available from AIB, BOI and Ulster Bank. This scheme forms a major component of the government’s strategy to aid SMEs in these difficult times by providing critical support to ensure businesses are facilitated in having access to credit facilities to assist a return to a more regular trading environment. It will provide an 80% guarantee on lending to SMEs until the end of this year, for terms between 3 months and 6 years. The guarantee can be used for a wide range of lending products between €10,000 and €1 million that have a maximum term of 6 years or less. The Scheme will be available to all SME sectors, including primary producers and will have interest rates below current market rates. The implementation of this Scheme will require legislation, the drafting of which has been approved by Government.
I can assure the Deputy that I continue to work with my colleagues across Government to examine further supports to assist businesses impacted by Covid-19.
605. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when chiropractors can reopen; and if they can reopen earlier if they implement precautions and use PPE and ensure the protection of the health and safety of patient and practitioner. [6374/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in Phases 2 to 5 of the Roadmap will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from Monday May 18. This is in line with advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). The categories of workers, list of retailers and other facilities that can re-open under Phase 1 are available on the Government’s website gov.ie.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and workers the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate.
The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
On 8 May the Government agreed details of a further support which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures. The Restart Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.
I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country, I know that employers and employees want to get back to work and I support them in that ambition, but it must be safe to do so. My Department contributed to the considerations around the phased re-opening of sectors and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.
A wide range of stakeholders including employers, unions and representative groups were consulted and their advice formed part of the considerations when drawing up the Roadmap. It is a living document and Government has the ability to flex the plans depending on the circumstances existing as we progress through each phase. It will be subject to regular review in the context of the progression or suppression of the disease in Ireland or new guidance or research that emerges from other sources.
606. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when a business (details supplied) will be able to be reopen under the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6416/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in Phases 2 to 5 of the Roadmap will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from Monday May 18. This is in line with advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). The categories of workers, list of retailers and other facilities that can re-open under Phase 1 are available on the Government’s website gov.ie.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and workers the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate.
The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
On 8 May the Government agreed details of a further support which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures. The Restart Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.
I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country. I know that employers and employees want to get back to work and I support them in that ambition, but it must be safe to do so. My Department contributed to the considerations around the phased re-opening of sectors and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.
A wide range of stakeholders including employers, unions and representative groups were consulted and their advice formed part of the considerations when drawing up the Roadmap. It is a living document and Government has the ability to amend its plans depending on the circumstances existing as we progress through each phase. It will be subject to regular review in the context of the progression or suppression of the disease in Ireland or new guidance or research that emerges from other sources.
607. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the way in which the Health and Safety Authority will fulfil its role in enforcing worker safety for employments as per the return to work safely protocol; the additional resources which will be provided to ensure random inspections of workplaces in order to assess the implementation of safeguards; the number of HSA workplace inspectors employed; her plans for an increase of such inspectors to adequately address the implementation of worker safety protocols; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6423/20]
View answerCompliance with the Return to Work Safely Protocol is being led by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), who have overall responsibility for ensuring the health, safety and welfare at work of all workers.
The HSA is deploying all its available inspectors across sectors to carry out both spot checks and other inspections to check compliance with the Protocol. The HSA inspectorate will be supplemented significantly by deploying, under the authority of the HSA, other inspectors from across the system who already have an environmental health, agriculture or other workplace/business inspection responsibilities. As we have seen with the general public health measures over the past two months, most people are complying with the rules. We can expect the same from employers and workers, most of who want to get back to work, and want the workplace to be safe, for them and for the families that they are returning to in the evenings.
Even with the enhanced cohort of inspectors available to the HSA, they cannot be expected to go into every business in the country. That would be entirely unrealistic and unachievable. What they will do is a mix of unannounced inspections, along with providing advice and information through the HSAs Workplace Contact Unit email and phoneline.
Phase 1 of the reopening of the economy began on Monday last and, the HSA and other inspectors are out there advising and guiding employers on how to respect the Protocol. Helping businesses to comply is the overall goal of the HSA. However if, following an inspection, the inspector forms the opinion that further action is required, the appropriate action, up to and including the closure of a workplace, will be taken using the relevant powers. Where relevant, the public health authorities will be involved.
All matters will be kept under review as the phased re-opening of the economy gets underway over the coming weeks.
608. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her Department is considering reviewing the current work permits regime in view of Covid-19. [6428/20]
View answerThe employment permits system is designed to facilitate the entry of appropriately skilled non-EEA nationals to fill skills and/or labour shortages, however, this objective must be balanced by the need to ensure that there are no suitably qualified Irish/EEA nationals available to undertake the work and that the shortage is a genuine one.
In order to ensure that the employment permits system is responsive to changes in economic circumstances and labour market conditions, it is managed through the operation of the Critical Skills Occupations List and the Ineligible Occupations List for the purpose of granting an employment permit which are subject to twice yearly reviews. These reviews are evidence based and are guided by research undertaken by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) and the Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU) in SOLAS, a public consultation process, input from the relevant Government Departments and the Economic Migration Inter-Departmental Group, chaired by the Department. Account is also taken of contextual factors such as Brexit and , in the current context, COVID 19.
Clearly the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to severely impact our economy, will cause us to look closely at the evolving challenges that present in the labour market for some time to come. Based on the evidence, submissions received, consultation with key stakeholders and the input of the Interdepartmental Group any changes proposed to the employment permits regime will be submitted for my consideration and approval.
A fundamental review of Economic Migration Policy, in 2018, indicated that the employment permits system, while providing a robust basis for the management of economic migration, the current legislation imposed a degree of inflexibility on the operation of the system. The review overseen by the Economic Migration Interdepartmental Group, included a public consultation process and an international benchmarking exercise. The Review’s recommendations included the drafting of a new bill to adjust the legislative structure of the system, to allow for swift responses to changes in labour supply and demand, or employment practices. Government approval has been secured for the General Scheme and work has commenced on the development of the legislation.
609. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the EU regulation pertaining to the movement of seasonal workers to different countries from within the EU; if guidance has been issued at EU level in view of Covid-19 in this area; and the steps taken to ensure that workers laid off due to the pandemic are given the opportunity to take up such employment should they wish. [6429/20]
View answerI would advise the Deputy that EU/EEA workers do not fall within the policy remit of my Department.
The European Commission on 30th March 2020 issued guidelines on the free movement of critical workers, including those in agri-food.
I am advised that officials of my colleagues, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection are working closely on a recruitment campaign to support enlisting a large number of temporary workers for the Horticulture sector from the live register. This campaign is underway and timed for the fruit harvest peaking mid-May to Mid-June and Vegetable harvest from Mid-June.
610. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she or her Department were contacted by any of the contractors involved in the construction of a new factory (details supplied) regarding the continued construction work at the site during the period of the Covid-19 restrictions. [6437/20]
View answer611. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her attention has been drawn to or if she has been contacted regarding the full reopening of a construction site (details supplied) on 11 May 2020 a week before the agreed reopening date for construction on 18 May 2020 and prior to the Return to Work Protocol from her Department and the HSE being distributed to and discussed with employees on the site. [6438/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 610 and 611 together.
The issue of construction works at the site in question is an operational matter for the companies concerned. I understand that the Deputy along with his colleagues Deputies Bríd Smith, Richard Boyd Barrett and Gino Kenny contacted the Chief Executive Officer of the Health and Safety Authority on May 10th and my office was included as a recipient in this email correspondence. I can confirm, however, that I have not been contacted by any of the contractors in question and neither, to the best of my knowledge, has my Department.
More broadly, as we begin the process of gradually easing restrictions on different parts of our economy, I understand that many construction firms are adapting construction sites so that future works can adhere to provisions on social distancing and employee safety. I expect these measures to be in line with all relevant Government guidelines and the Return to Work Safely Protocol issued by my Department earlier this month.
612. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she will call for the closure of a construction site (details supplied) until a full Covid-19 risk assessment has been carried out and safety procedures are agreed for the site by the HSA, the workplace and safety reps, the Covid-19 safety rep and trade union safety reps in accordance with the Return to Work Protocol and the HSE Covid-19 guidelines; and if the HSA will be instructed to inspect this site for breaches of the Return to Work Protocol and HSE Covid-19 safety guidelines and issue enforcement proceedings to ensure full compliance. [6439/20]
View answerThe inspection of workplaces and any actions arising from inspections are, in the first instance, an operational matter for the Health and Safety Authority. In deciding to carry out a workplace inspection, the Health and Safety Authority consider a number of factors, including receipt of complaints in relation to practices at a place of work.
I launched the Return to Work Safely on the 9th of May, prior to this the Construction Industry Federation produced an on-line induction course and a guidance document for the construction sector. This guidance was quickly amended to ensure it reflected the Return to Work Safely Protocol. I would expect the construction sector to abide by the rules set out in the Protocol.
Any concerns about potential breaches of occupational safety and health legislation at a specific place of work and/or in regard to adherence with the provisions of the national Return to Work Safely Protocol should be brought to the attention of the Health and Safety Authority by contacting its Workplace Contact Unit.
613. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she or her Department will specify in relation to page 2 of the Return to Work Protocol that the procedure for the selection and appointment of Covid-19 safety representatives will be carried out by the employees in a collective manner, as provided for in accordance with section 25 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. [6440/20]
View answer614. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she or her Department will insert into the Covid-19 Return to Work Protocol a provision that an employer cannot penalise a worker that leaves a workplace due to the fact their health and safety is at risk, as provided for in section 27(3)(f) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. [6441/20]
View answer615. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she or her Department will insert into page 16 or 17 of the Covid-19 Return to Work Protocol a provision that in the absence of appropriate Covid PPE, employees shall not proceed with tasks requiring Covid PPE until the appropriate PPE is provided by the employer. [6442/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 613 to 615, inclusive, together.
At the launch of the national Return to Work Safely Protocol it was emphasised that it was a "living document" and as such it is at all times open to amendment as public health advice from the Department of Health and HSE change so it may be necessary to adapt provisions within the protocol.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol explicitly states that the success of its provisions is dependent on co-operation between workers and employers, such co-operation to include regular engagement about the virus and the preventative measures in place within the workplace involved.
It should be noted Section 27 of The Health, Safety and Welfare Act, 2005 prohibits an employer from penalising or threatening to penalise an employee with respect to any terms or condition of his/her employment, where the employee is exercising any right under safety and health legislation.
The enforcement of Section 27 of the Health and Safety Act is a matter for the Workplace Relations Commission. Any employee who feels that their health and safety or employment rights have been breached in relation to Covid 19 in the workplace has recourse to the industrial mechanisms of the state.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol recognises that in order to copper fasten the co-operation between the employer and the worker the appointment of a dedicated worker representative to take the lead role in the implementation, monitoring and reporting on the agreed Covid-19 related measures within the workplace is necessary. Employers are required to ensure any workers allocated the role of lead Covid-19 representative has received appropriate training in order to carry out this role. This training will be in addition to and not in substitution of the compulsory induction Covid-19 training to be provided by employers to all their workers.
Appointment to the role of Covid-19 representative will be subject to the agreement of the employer that there can be no repercussions on the representative’s employment status.
The Protocol does not relieve in anyway an employer of his or her responsibilities under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, or Regulations made under the Act in regard to protection of the safety, health and welfare of their employees. Under this legislation employers must carry out an appropriate risk assessment and produce a related safety statement and make the appropriate details of these available to the relevant employees.
616. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if clarity will be provided on businesses and their reopening roadmap (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6454/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in Phases 2 to 5 of the Roadmap will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from Monday May 18. This is in line with advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). The categories of workers, list of retailers and other facilities that can re-open under Phase 1 are available on the Government’s website gov.ie.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and workers the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate.
The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
On 8 May the Government agreed details of a further support which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures. The Restart Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.
I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country, I know that employers and employees want to get back to work and I support them in that ambition, but it must be safe to do so. My Department contributed to the considerations around the phased re-opening of sectors and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.
A wide range of stakeholders including employers, unions and representative groups were consulted and their advice formed part of the considerations when drawing up the Roadmap. It is a living document and Government has the ability to flex the plans depending on the circumstances existing as we progress through each phase. It will be subject to regular review in the context of the progression or suppression of the disease in Ireland or new guidance or research that emerges from other sources.
617. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when further details will be provided on the restart fund of €250 million for micro and small businesses which was announced on 2 May 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6458/20]
View answerOn Friday, May 15 2020 the Government agreed details of the new €250m Restart Grant, which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures.
The Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers.
The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, or a minimum payment of €2,000, whichever is the higher, and a maximum payment of €10,000. Those businesses with outstanding rates bills are also eligible to make an application if they meet the criteria.
Applications for the Restart Grant can be made online to local authorities from Friday 22 May. Processing of applications and payment of the Restart Grant will depend on the initial surge of applications but, as far as is feasible, will be prioritised according to scheduled re-opening dates in the national Roadmap.
To avail of the Restart Grant, a business must be in the Local Authorities Commercial Rates Payment System and:
1. have an annual turnover of less than €5m and employ between 1 to 50 people;
2. have closed and/or suffered a projected 25%+ loss in turnover to end June 2020;
3. commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed;
4. declare the intention to retaining employees that are on The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) and to reemploy staff on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment where applicable.
The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety.
This direct grant support is part of the wider €12bn package of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the Wage Subsidy Scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.
618. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her views on the measures highlighted in correspondence (details supplied) in respect of the future viability of a business; if a specific roadmap is being examined to protect local independent bookstores from being swallowed up by online stores as Ireland emerges from the Covid-19 crisis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6499/20]
View answerI am delighted to hear that so many of the Government initiatives to protect businesses, workers and the public have been beneficial to Mr. Dolan and I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country.
As Chair of the Retail Consultation Forum, I am acutely aware that COVID-19 has brought particular challenges for retailers, large and small, across the country. The work of the Forum will continue to focus on the future development and long-term viability of the retail sector, including considerations about town centre renewal and enhancement through the Framework for Town Centre Renewal, in conjunction with the Department of Rural and Community Development and other relevant Departments, as well as through Project Ireland 2040.
The Government will continue to actively engage with business owners and representative bodies. Local Authorities, who have longstanding experience in dealing with ratepayers, are assessing the impact of COVID-19 by engaging directly with individual ratepayers, recognising that there may be impacts on sectors outside of those initially identified as being most under threat.
The supports announced on 2nd May include a three-month commercial rates waiver for impacted businesses and a restart grant for micro and small businesses based on a rates waiver/rebate from 2019.
These new supports acknowledge that affected businesses need time and space to restructure and resume activity, without the added pressures of trying to repay legacy debts, such as commercial rents, when revenues are just beginning to return.
Through the Enterprise Forum and Retail Forum, both of which I chair, I am hearing from stakeholders about these issues and I have asked my officials to raise the matter across a number of Government Departments.
I have also asked my officials to look into the different responses from other countries and to identify possible options for supports.
Mr. Dolan may be interested in talking to his Local Enterprise Office regarding the Trading Online Voucher Scheme which is available to all micro enterprises with less than 10 employees, including those in the retail sector. The €2,500 Trading Online Vouchers are a key Government grant to help small and micro enterprises, with very limited or no e-commerce presence, to get online, boost their sales and reach new markets – particularly during this difficult period, when so many small businesses are closed to the public.
However, the value of the Trading Online Voucher will stand to businesses for years to come, boosting revenue, and helping sustain and create jobs into the future.
The Voucher can be used towards adding payment facilities or booking systems to websites or developing new apps for customers, with co-funding from the business currently set at just 10 percent. The Voucher can also be used towards subscriptions to low-cost online retail platform solutions to help companies quickly establish a retailing presence online. Training and further business supports are also provided along with the Scheme.
Further details about the expanding Trading Online Voucher Scheme are available at https://www.localenterprise.ie/Discover-Business-Supports/Trading-Online-Voucher-Scheme-/
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is designed to support employers and workers to put measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace, when the economy begins to re-open. The Protocol and other guidance and templates from the HSA are available here https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/covid-19/covid-19_coronavirus.html.
I am committed to supporting the needs of the retail sector in developing their viability, their online capability and enhancing their competitiveness.
619. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of field inspector posts recruited in each of the past three years; and the number that left during the same period. [6508/20]
View answerIn my Department there are a number of staff assigned to work as Labour Inspectors (Executive Officer equivalent) within the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). Labour Inspectors deliver an enforcement, and information service in relation to employer obligations and employee rights/entitlements/protections.
In the past three years my Department has not recruited directly from open competitions to fill these posts. As vacancies arise through natural attrition, e.g. retirements and promotions, these posts have been filled, via internal competitions, with existing Departmental staff.
The table below sets out the number of Labour Inspectors who left, and the number who took up posts, during the years 2017, 2018, 2019 and to date in 2020:
|
Year |
Number that left Post |
Number that took up post |
|
2017 |
3 |
7* |
|
2018 |
4 |
5 |
|
2019 |
1 |
0 |
|
2020 (to date) |
3 |
0 |
* This figure includes vacancies carried over from 2016
620. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the estimated full-year cost if the budget for local enterprise offices increased by 20%; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6519/20]
View answerA 20% increase in the present LEO 2020 capital budget of €33.5 million would result in increasing the annual capital budget of the LEOs to €40.2 million. In general, Budgetary issues are managed in the context of any savings or otherwise that may or may not be generated on the Departmental Vote as the year progresses having regard to the usual financial procedures and the annual budgetary cycle.
621. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of her discussions with the Ministers for Public Expenditure and Reform and Housing, Planning and Local Government with regard to the provision of a restart fund for micro and small businesses; when business owners can expect to apply; the anticipated turnaround times for an application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6556/20]
View answer622. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if those businesses with outstanding rates or repayments schedule for rates owed will be eligible to access the proposed restart fund for small and micro businesses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6559/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 621 and 622 together.
On Friday, May 15 2020 the Government agreed details of the new €250m Restart Grant, which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures.
The Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers.
The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, or a minimum payment of €2,000, whichever is the higher, and a maximum payment of €10,000. Those businesses with outstanding rates bills are also eligible to make an application if they meet the criteria.
Applications for the Restart Grant can be made online to local authorities from Friday 22 May. Processing of applications and payment of the Restart Grant will depend on the initial surge of applications but, as far as is feasible, will be prioritised according to scheduled re-opening dates in the national Roadmap.
To avail of the Restart Grant, a business must be in the Local Authorities Commercial Rates Payment System and:
1. have an annual turnover of less than €5m and employ between 1 to 50 people;
2. have closed and/or suffered a projected 25%+ loss in turnover to end June 2020;
3. commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed;
4. declare the intention to retaining employees that are on The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) and to reemploy staff on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment where applicable.
The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, for replenishing stock and for measures needed to ensure employee and customer safety.
This direct grant support is part of the wider €12bn package of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the Wage Subsidy Scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.
624. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the funding the Health and Safety Authority spent on all safety initiatives; the number of inspections it carried out in each of the years 2016 to 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6562/20]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is as follows:
Table of Health and Safety Authority inspections and investigations 2016 – 2020
|
Year |
Total Inspections across all Sectors |
Total Inspections and Investigations across all Sectors |
Funding spent on safety initiatives |
|
2016 |
9,372 |
10,497 |
€1.3M |
|
2017 |
8,877 |
9,947 |
€1.53M |
|
2018 |
8,905 |
9,849 |
€1.6M |
|
2019 |
9,270 |
10,301 |
€1.62M |
|
2020 (to 13th May 2020) |
2,024 |
2,264 |
€0.61M (YTD) |
The Health and Safety Authority operates across a broad mandate in the areas of occupational health and safety, chemicals, accreditation, as well as market surveillance of products.
The Health and Safety Authority works to an Annual Programme of Work which is approved by the Board of the Authority. The majority of it's planned Safety Initiatives in any given year focus primarily on the high risk sectors such as construction and farming.
625. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she will review the current timeline envisaged by the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business for the reopening of shopping centres by phase three or four in circumstances in which it can be demonstrated that operational safety measures can be implemented; her views on correspondence (details supplied); and the reason some retail units can open ahead of those units based in custom built shopping centres under the roadmap. [6563/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in Phases 2 to 5 of the Roadmap will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from Monday May 18. This is in line with advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). The categories of workers, list of retailers and other facilities that can re-open under Phase 1 are available on the Government’s website gov.ie.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and workers the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate.
The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
On 8 May the Government agreed details of a further support which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures. The Restart Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.
I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country, I know that employers and employees want to get back to work and I support them in that ambition, but it must be safe to do so. My Department contributed to the considerations around the phased re-opening of sectors and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.
A wide range of stakeholders including employers, unions and representative groups were consulted and their advice formed part of the considerations when drawing up the Roadmap. It is a living document and Government has the ability to flex the plans depending on the circumstances existing as we progress through each phase. It will be subject to regular review in the context of the progression or suppression of the disease in Ireland or new guidance or research that emerges from other sources.
626. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her attention has been drawn to the fact that certain employees in particular some Irish persons with jobs based abroad are required to have a Covid-19 test before returning to work; her plans to put a system in place to facilitate tests for such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6591/20]
View answerPublic health requirements in respect of persons working abroad is a matter for the authorities of the country where the employee is working.
The Irish Government is asking passengers arriving from overseas to complete a Public Health Passenger Locator Form and to self-isolate for 14 days following arrival. It is noted that you do not need to self-isolate if you:
- return to the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland
- are an essential supply chain worker - for example, a pilot, haulier, maritime staff member
- are briefly stopping over at an airport on your way to another country
Further information on the procedures to be followed on arrival in Ireland can be found on the following webpage:
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e885b2-covid-19-coronavirus-travel-advice/.
Guidance for Supply Chain Workers is available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ed29dc-irelands-response-to-covid-19-transport-measures/
Work is underway to introduce regulations which will place these arrangements on a statutory basis. The introduction of such regulations will include detailed provisions on exempt categories.
Policy and practise on Covid-19 testing is a matter for the Department of Health and the HSE.
627. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of dog grooming businesses; the position or phase they come under with regard to reopening in view of the fact that many dog groomers work alone in an isolated environment (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6599/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in Phases 2 to 5 of the Roadmap will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from Monday May 18. This is in line with advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). The categories of workers, list of retailers and other facilities that can re-open under Phase 1 are available on the Government’s website gov.ie.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and workers the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate.
The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
On 8 May the Government agreed details of a further support which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures. The Restart Grant will be available to businesses with a turnover of less than €5m and employing 50 people or less, which were closed or impacted by at least a 25% reduction in turnover out to 30 June 2020. It is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and re-connecting with employees and customers. The grants will be equivalent to the rates bill of the business in 2019, with a minimum payment of €2,000 and a maximum payment of €10,000.
I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country, I know that employers and employees want to get back to work and I support them in that ambition, but it must be safe to do so. My Department contributed to the considerations around the phased re-opening of sectors and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.
A wide range of stakeholders including employers, unions and representative groups were consulted and their advice formed part of the considerations when drawing up the Roadmap. It is a living document and Government has the ability to flex the plans depending on the circumstances existing as we progress through each phase. It will be subject to regular review in the context of the progression or suppression of the disease in Ireland or new guidance or research that emerges from other sources.
