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Tuesday, 23 Jun 2020

Written Answers Nos. 361-383

Export Credit Insurance

Questions (361)

James O'Connor

Question:

361. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her plans to introduce a short-term export credit insurance scheme such as has been announced in other EU member states, in particular for those in the agriculture sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11722/20]

View answer

Written answers

I am aware of the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on all businesses and this includes the private trade credit insurance market.

As a result of the significant economic shock, there is increased uncertainty regarding the financial performance of many companies in our economy. I understand that the trade credit insurance companies have had to adjust their coverage in response to this adverse economic environment.

In response the Government has already introduced a range of measures and supports to the economy in order to sustain and over time facilitate a return to a more normal trading environment. This in turn should permit the trade credit market to reconsider the risk environment and adjust their coverage as appropriate.

My Department continues to consider further options for appropriate and effective assistance to businesses and this includes the possibility of supports to ensure the continued provision of credit insurance and the appropriate mechanism to do so. This has included examination of trade credit interventions undertaken in other countries.

My officials are engaging with the private trade credit insurance providers to assess the impact of the current crisis on trade credit insurance and the scale of the consequential impact on Irish businesses, and whether specific support can be provided to this market and how this could complement other general supports provided by the Government.

As this issue also affects those in the Agriculture sector, officials from my Department are engaging with their colleagues in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in evaluating whether a support for Trade Credit Insurance is required.

Any support will need to be considered alongside these other available options, which may be capable of achieving an effective outcome and minimising the risk exposure to public funds.

This is an ongoing process.

Local Enterprise Offices

Questions (362)

Willie O'Dea

Question:

362. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if sufficient funding is in place to pay out grants to applications to each local enterprise office for the business community vouchers and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11736/20]

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Written answers

As the Deputy will be aware the Business Continuity Voucher scheme was launched on 26th March last as part of the suite of Covid 19 business supports. The purpose of the scheme was to provide expert guidance and advice to SMEs employing up 50 people and enable business owners make informed decisions about what immediate measures and remedial actions could be taken at the outset of this crisis, to protect staff and sales and eventually help the business recover.

As the reopening of the economy proceeds, more and more businesses are transitioning from the planning to the implementation phase as we progress through the remaining stages of the Government Roadmap. It is in this context that the Business Continuity Voucher is being phased out and is now closed to new applicants. In recognition of this new stage the new €250m Restart Grant was introduced to assist micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and re-employing workers following COVID-19 closures.

The Business Continuity Voucher Scheme was a resounding success in terms of uptake, the product of it being an appropriate support for that point in time. The LEOs will continue to work with existing applicants and recipients of BCV vouchers and their subsequent business continuity plans. The awarding and processing of vouchers under the BCV scheme will naturally taper off in the coming weeks as the Local Enterprise Offices process the outstanding applications.

The payment of the Business Continuity Voucher is dependent on the project being finished, invoice and project report submitted to LEO, with the LEO subsequently completing due diligence checks and processing by Local Authority Finance Units.

Clearly the level of demand both for the scheme and the consequent budget drawdown has been unprecedented, with approvals to date to the value of €20.6m representing a substantial portion of the existing LEO budget for 2020. This is a continually evolving situation and my Department is continually reviewing take-up of schemes and the need for reallocations or additional budgets.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (363)

Jack Chambers

Question:

363. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if the concerns of retailers (details supplied) seeking support in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic will be examined and receive a response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11764/20]

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Written answers

I asked my officials to raise the matter of commercial rents and leases across a number of Government Departments. Interdepartmental discussions have taken place and there has been engagement with a range of stakeholders, including groups representing businesses and landlords, to gain additional insights and gather intelligence to inform any further discussions. I have also asked my officials to look into the different responses from other countries and to identify possible options to address the issues involved.

While different options are being explored, I would point out that any support to business in respect of rents alone would ultimately end up as a support to the landlord. Not only would it be difficult to estimate the costs involved for such a scheme, but the offering of support, or even the perception that such supports will be forthcoming, may affect the market and lessen the impetus for landlords to renegotiate with tenants.

Engagement between the landlords and tenants should be the first route taken. Tenants and landlords are encouraged to engage with each other on this matter and come to some arrangement, as it is in everybody’s interest that terms are amicably agreed. Mixed reports from stakeholders have been received on the extent to which commercial tenants have been able to negotiate with landlords. Many landlords are being constructive at the moment with informal, temporary arrangements being agreed with tenants. There is, understandably, some reluctance by landlords to disclose such arrangements due to commercial sensitivities. However, it appears that other landlords have been less flexible.

The Government is committed to ensuring as many businesses as possible survive this challenging period, and it will continue to look at how we can support businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The Government recognises the issue of ‘out of pocket’ costs for businesses which have to pay ongoing fixed costs such as rents, despite not being able to trade. We have introduced a suite of supports to assist businesses which includes the wage subsidy scheme, grants, low cost loans, deferred tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. Full details on all supports are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

The issue of supporting fixed costs, including commercial rents, was very much to the fore of our minds when the Government recently introduced the Restart Grant which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with re-opening following COVID-19 closures. 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.

The issue of Commercial Rates is a policy matter for the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government. However, I can inform the Deputy that, on 2nd May, the Government announced that commercial rates are being waived for a three-month period beginning on 27th March for businesses that have been forced to close due to public health requirements.

The Government will continue to actively engage with business owners and representative bodies regarding commercial rates. Local Authorities, who have longstanding experience in dealing with ratepayers and showing an understanding of their financial situations, 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.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (364)

Jack Chambers

Question:

364. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if the specific concerns of a business (details supplied) will be examined and receive a response; when the business can return to work; the restrictions it will need to be put in place; the help or supports the business can avail of; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11766/20]

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Written answers

On 19 June the Government, having considered the public health expert advice provided by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), approved the rephasing of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business. Apart from some exceptions, most sectors are now being brought forward to Phase 3, beginning on Monday 29 June.

Dance studios are listed among the sports activities which can reopen from 29 June, subject to the restrictions on numbers for public gatherings and other important public health advice. Full details are available at https://www.gov.ie/en/news/58bc8b-taoiseach-announces-roadmap-for-reopening-society-and-business-and-u/

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/.

As we move forward on reopening of society and business, it is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of the remaining restrictions will be informed by the public health advice at the time.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (365, 380)

James Browne

Question:

365. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she will consider grant aid for businesses that pay rates as part of their rent; if she will consider providing grant aid to businesses thatneed to secure PPE and Perspex screening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11769/20]

View answer

James Browne

Question:

380. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her plans to provide grant funding for small businesses that need to purchase hygiene equipment and clear plastic screening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12188/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 365 and 380 together.

On Friday, 15th May, 2020, the Government decided to establish a new €250m Restart Grant providing direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with reopening and re-employing workers following COVID-19 closures.

The scheme will provide funding to enable small and micro business reconnect with their employees and customer base by helping to defray ongoing fixed costs and the costs associated with re-launching the business which may include the installation of Perspex screens and the costs associated with purchasing PPE.

To avail of the Restart Grant, applicants must be a commercial business and be in the Local Authorities Commercial Rates Payment System and:

1. have an annual turnover of less than €5m and employ 50 people or less

2. have suffered a projected 25%+ loss in turnover between 1 April and end June 2020;

3. commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed;

4. declare the intention to retain employees that are on The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme

The grant will be the amount of the rates demand in respect of calendar year 2019 only, subject to a minimum of €2,000 and a maximum of €10,000.

Where a property is rented and the landlord is paying the rates it is the tenant that is entitled to the grant, as the support is for restarting the business operating in the premises and the grant applied is the equivalent of the 2019 rates on the property.

Applications for the Restart Grant can be made online directly to local authorities.

Departmental Policy Functions

Questions (366)

Carol Nolan

Question:

366. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her Department has a diversity and inclusion policy in place; the measures taken to promote diversity and inclusion from 1 January 2019 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11818/20]

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Written answers

As a Civil Service employer, my Department is committed to diversity and inclusion, with equality of opportunity in all its employment practices, with staff equality of participation in the Department, regardless of gender, civil or family status, sexual orientation, religious belief, age, disability, race or membership of the Traveller Community.

My Department’s HR policies and practices are governed by Circulars and guidance set centrally by the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, including the overarching public sector values of honesty, impartiality and integrity, which are set out in The Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour, and also include the Dignity at Work Policy, the Civil Service Code of Practice for the Employment of People with Disabilities, Circular 42 of 2001 the Gender Equality Policy for the Civil Service, and Circular 24 of 2002 Diversity in the Civil Service a Policy on Equality of Opportunity.

The Civil Service Renewal Plan which launched in 2014 further enshrined the principles of diversity and inclusion in the Civil Service People Strategy 2017-2020 and my Department is committed to a workplace of dignity and respect for all staff.

In line with our obligations under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, 2014, the Department is committed to proofing its policies, procedures and services across its business areas to ensure we comply with our requirements in the area of human rights and equality. Diversity and equality considerations are stated business priorities in workforce planning within my Department.My Department’s Statement of Strategy 2018-2021 sets out the Department commitment to work with the Civil Service Management Board to seek to remove any barriers that may exist which may stop people from competing for and participating in senior management and leadership positions both within the Department and across our Agencies.

In appointing staff to my Department, the HR Unit liaises directly with the Public Appointments Service (PAS) and Top-Level Appointments Committee (TLAC) in relation to the filling of posts in line with these policies. Staffing resources are an ongoing priority to ensure my Department’s continued ability to facilitate the wide mission and volume of work in a range of challenging policy areas and a best fit for the job policy with equality of access is integral to the assignment of staff within my Department. The Secretary General of my Department is one of four Secretaries General leading the delivery of Action 8.5 of the Civil Service Renewal Plan – “To improve gender balance at each level by reviewing supports and policies to ensure these measures are impactful and measurable”. The Civil Service has set an ambitious target to achieve 50/50 gender balance in appointments at senior levels. This is essential to ensure that the Civil Service is reflective of society.

The Learning and Development Unit within my Department provides access to training initiatives including targeted leadership programmes for women such as ‘Taking the Lead - Women in Leadership’ and the 30% Club ‘Cross Company Mentoring Programme’ as well as promoting female participation in leadership programmes. ‘Recognising unconscious bias’ training is provided for interview board members, and coaching and mentoring programmes are offered which facilitate a positive work environment where all talent is continually nurtured and developed.

An LGBTI+ Network called ‘Pride in Business’ has been formed by staff within my Department, and holds a number of events to raise awareness and to support members and allies of the LGBTI+ community.

My Department’s Disability Liaison Officer acts as a proactive contact for staff with disabilities, to assist and support them, and to assist in the implementation of best Human Resource practices in line with equality legislation. This role also includes the organisation of work placements in my Department for people with disabilities, specifically for the Willing and Mentoring (WAM) project.

In 2018 my Department established a Disability Consultative Committee (DCC), in line with the Government’s ‘National Disability Inclusion Strategy 2017-21’. The purpose of the DCC is to provide a focus for disability inclusion in respect of the policy work, schemes and initiatives of the Department. Membership of the Group includes nominated representatives of disability groups along with Departmental officials and representatives from the Department’s Offices and Agencies.

My Department leads the Government’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda and works with business through the “Towards Responsible Business Ireland’s National Plan on Corporate Social Responsibility 2017-2020” which was developed through collaboration with major business stakeholders. This National Plan includes a sub action to “Encourage business to develop strategies to integrate diversity and to promote gender equality at all levels in the workplace and for the employment of people with disabilities’.

The National Plan on CSR is implemented through a business led voluntary CSR Stakeholder Forum with the secretariat provided by my Department. Diversity and Inclusion is a principal theme of the Forum’s work programme since 2018. In the delivery of its work programme, the Forum has focused on the identification of good practice in the area of diversity and inclusion. The Forum uses its stakeholder meetings and communications channels including csrhub.ie, to highlight good practice through expert presentations and case studies to deepen peer learning amongst business. Additionally, the Forum has contributed to and raised awareness of various Government led strategies including the LGBT+ Inclusion Strategy.

Future Growth Loan Scheme

Questions (367)

Peter Burke

Question:

367. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if a new future growth loan scheme will be released; if so, the date; the way in which it will operate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11909/20]

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Written answers

The Future Growth Loan Scheme (FGLS) was launched in April 2019 to address an identified market failure in the availability of longer-term lending for investment purposes to SMEs including farmers and fishers, and small mid-caps. It provides for loan periods of 8-10 years at competitive interest rates.

The scheme makes up to €300 million of loans available and is operated by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) though participating lenders. The SBCI provides an uncapped guarantee of 80% to the participating financial providers. The scheme is underpinned by a counter-guarantee to the SBCI from the European Investment Fund (EIF), which is part of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group. This counter-guarantee provides significant risk protection to the Exchequer against potential losses from the loan guarantee scheme. Losses to the scheme are shared as followed – 20% by the finance provider, 16% by SBCI and 64% by EIF.

The scheme was due to operate over a three year period, but the demand for the scheme has surpassed expectations such that the scheme is close to being fully subscribed after just one year of operation.

On 8 April, I announced that the FGLS would be expanded to make available a further €200 million in additional lending. Officials in my department along with officials in the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine are negotiating intensely with the European Investment Fund on this expansion of the scheme. This work is now coming to conclusion and preparations are being made towards making this new lending available as soon as possible to SMEs, including primary producers, and this will be through participating lenders of the scheme. It is expected that the €200 million in new lending through the scheme will become available in early July.

Access to lending under the scheme will be based on a two-step process:

- Applicants must apply for eligibility to the scheme through the SBCI

- Applicants approved for eligibility through the SBCI then make application to a participating lender for loan approval. Loan approval will be based on the credit assessment and policy procedures of the participating lender.

In addition, a further €300 million in lending is to be made available through the scheme in further tranches over the 2021 and 2022 period to bring the total quantum in new lending through the FGLS to €500 million. This will provide for access to finance for the many businesses looking to invest in their long-term future, be that in response to COVID-19, to mitigate against Brexit impacts or to transform their businesses in terms of productivity, innovation and competitiveness to secure their future sustainability, growth and resilience.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (368, 377)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

368. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she is considering financial support packages for those in the music industry, including artists and producers, whose livelihoods have been severely impacted by Covid-19; when live music in venues can recommence, in particular small gigs in local bars and restaurants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11916/20]

View answer

Pearse Doherty

Question:

377. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if she is considering financial support packages for those in the music industry, including artists and producers, whose livelihoods have been severely impacted by Covid-19; if she will provide clarity as to when live music in venues can recommence in particular small gigs in local bars; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12060/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 368 and 377 together.

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/.

The Deputy will also be aware that on Tuesday 16th June 2020, An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar and Minister for Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan announced €25 million in extra supports to help the Arts and Culture sector recover from the Covid19 Emergency. The funding will include bursaries and commissions to artists and arts organisations, and resources for museums and culture workers as they prepare for the re-opening of society. The funding is on top of funding previously allocated to the sector. A total of €20 million will be allocated to the Arts Council bringing its allocation this year to €100 million. A further €5 million will be available for other measures, including securing the future of key cultural and museum spaces and facilities throughout Ireland, and the production of high-quality digital art and on-line performances.

The COVID-19 Working Capital Scheme is offered in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and is supported by the InnovFin SME Guarantee facility. The scheme is operated by the SBCI.

It currently makes available a fund of up to €200 million 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 a further announcement, work is now under way on a significant expansion to this Scheme.

The scheme is open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps (businesses of up to 499 employees) negatively impacted by COVID-19. Loans under the scheme range from €25,000 to €1.5m and are for periods of up to three years. The maximum interest rate under the scheme is 4% and loans of up to €500,000 are available unsecured.

The Future Growth Loan Scheme currently 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) through 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. Funding made available by the scheme facilitates long-term, strategic investment.

The scheme is open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps (businesses of up to 499 employees), including those in the primary agriculture and seafood sectors. Loans under the scheme range from €100,000 (€50,000 for farmers) to €3m per eligible business, with loans of up to €500,000 available unsecured. The initial maximum interest rate is capped at 4.5% for loans up to €249,999 and 3.5% for loans more than or equal to €250,000 for the first six months. These rates represent a significant saving compared with the prevailing rates that are otherwise being offered for similar loans on the market.

This scheme has been 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.

Government has agreed a new €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme and this is a further development of the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme already available. 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 will be able to 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 and includes primary producers. It will also have interest rates below current market rates. The implementation of this Scheme will require primary legislation, the drafting of which has commenced.

There are a number of liquidity supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses available now, including the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme which was implemented in 2012, supporting loans up to €1 million for periods of up to 7 years. The scheme is designed to support a range of debt products appropriate to the borrowing needs of SMEs. 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.

Under the reconfiguration of the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business announced on the 5th June, there are now just two remaining phases instead of three, with Phase 3 starting on the 29th of June, and Phase 4 on the 20th of July. Further work will be carried out in the coming days and weeks to determine which actions will take place in each phase. Updates to the roadmap can be found at www.gov.ie.

The Roadmap is a living document and Government has demonstrated great flexibility in its decision to accelerate the phases as set out in the original Roadmap.

The input and advice of National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) informed the Government’s decision to proceed with Phase 2 and to accelerate elements of the Roadmap. The Government also had regard to a paper which was developed by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to provide an updated assessment of the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify, from an economic perspective, some priority issues for re-opening of economic activity under Phase 2. This paper, “Economic Considerations for Reinstating Economic Activity - Update for Phase 2”, is available on my Department’s website at-

https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Publication-files/Economic-Considerations-for-Reinstating-Economic-Activity-Update-for-Phase-2.pdf.

On 8th June the Minister for Health, Simon Harris T.D., signed SI No.206 of 2020, Health Act 1947 (Section 31A – Temporary Restrictions)(COVID-19)(No. 2) Regulations. These Regulations, which shall remain in operation until 29th June, provide for the unwinding of certain restrictions, including the reopening of retail outlets and extending the distance that may be travelled for specified purposes. The Regulations also provide for continued restrictions for some businesses or services and for offences, including in relation to events. Businesses should carefully review these Regulations.

Where a business is not specifically listed in SI No.206 of 2020, it should review the Roadmap and the updates carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of its 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 employees 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 National Return to Work Safely 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.

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 under Phases 1 and 2 and I will work within Government to secure further details and clarity for businesses as we progress through the phases outlined in the Roadmap.

It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions as envisaged in the next two phases of the Roadmap will be informed by the public health advice at the time.

Departmental Communications

Questions (369)

Paul Murphy

Question:

369. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the communication that has taken place between her Department and the representative organisations of the barbers, hairdressing and other personal care salons. [11941/20]

View answer

Written answers

Over the past three months I received a range of representations from the representatives organisations of barbers, hairdressers and other personal care salons. In response to their requests, I met with members of the hairdressing and beauty industry via teleconference on 7th May, 20th May and 16th June. I requested that, where sectors are developing return to work protocols or guides, they should work together to align this work.

On 5th June the Irish Hairdressing Federation submitted their protocol to my Department and I sent this to my colleague, the Minister for Health, Simon Harris T.D. and the HSE for consideration.

As the Deputy is aware, on Friday, 19th June, following consideration of the expert public health advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), the Government approved the rephasing of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business. Apart from some exceptions, most sectors are being brought forward to Phase 3, beginning on Monday 29 June.

Under the rephased Roadmap, hairdressers, barbers, nail and brow salons, beauty salons, spas, make-up application services, tanning, tattooing and piercing services can reopen on 29th June. Full details of those sectors which can reopen under Phase 3 are available at https://www.gov.ie/en/news/58bc8b-taoiseach-announces-roadmap-for-reopening-society-and-business-and-u/

My Department continues to contribute to the considerations around rephasing of the Roadmap and I welcome the clarity this brings for business. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the lifting of the remaining restrictions will be informed by the public health advice.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (370, 371)

Paul Murphy

Question:

370. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the detailed Covid-19 safety advice that has been issued to the representative organisations of the barbers, hairdressing and other personal care salons. [11942/20]

View answer

Paul Murphy

Question:

371. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the advice that has been issued to the representative organisations of the barbers, hairdressing and other personal care salons with regard to reopening dates. [11943/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 370 and 371 together.

On 19 June, the Government, having considered the expert public health advice provided by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), approved the rephasing of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business. Apart from some exceptions, most sectors are now being brought forward to Phase 3, beginning on Monday 29 June. Full details are available at https://www.gov.ie/en/news/58bc8b-taoiseach-announces-roadmap-for-reopening-society-and-business-and-u/

Under the rephased Roadmap, hairdressers, barbers, nail and brow salons, beauty salons, spas, make-up application services, tanning, tattooing and piercing services can reopen on 29 June.

My Department continues to contribute to the considerations around rephasing of the Roadmap and I welcome the clarity this brings for business. In response to their request, I recently met with members of the hairdressing and beauty industry via teleconference where they discussed developing guidelines and safety protocols, with reference to the Government’s Return to Work Safely Protocol. I requested that, where sectors are developing such protocols or guides, they should work together to align this work. The Irish Hairdressing Federation subsequently submitted their protocol to my Department and I sent this to my colleague, the Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD. and the HSE for consideration.

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/.

As we move forward on reopening of society and business, it is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of the remaining restrictions will be informed by the public health advice at the time.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (372)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

372. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her plans to provide a Covid-19 restart grant type of payment to the bed and breakfast sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11957/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant support is just one part of the wider €12bn package of Government supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, the pandemic unemployment payment for the self-employed, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

To qualify for the €250m Restart Grant, a business must be in a rateable premises and;

- have a turnover of less than €5m and have 50 or less employees.

- have suffered a projected 25%+ loss in revenue from 1st April 2020 to 30th June 2020.

- commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed.

- The business must also declare the intention to retain employees that are benefitting from the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS).

Full details on all COVID19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

Regarding any further targeted supports specifically aimed at the tourism sector, I welcome the announcement by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport of a dedicated Tourism Recovery Taskforce, made up of leaders from varying sections of the industry, who will work together to deal with the many challenges ahead in a dynamic and innovative manner. It has been tasked with identifying measures required to enable Irish tourism to recover from the devastating effects of Covid-19.

The group is chaired by Ruth Andrews, CEO of the Irish Tour Operators Association. Other members include travel writer Eoghan Corry, CEO of Fáilte Ireland Paul Kelly, Niall Gibbons, CEO Tourism Ireland, Stephen Kavanagh, board member and former CEO of Aer Lingus and Martin Dalby, CEO of Center Parcs.

Enterprise Ireland

Questions (373)

Gino Kenny

Question:

373. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if Enterprise Ireland support is being made available to companies that sell poppy seed or that have poppy seeds in their products; if not, when it was revoked; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11997/20]

View answer

Written answers

Enterprise Ireland’s mandate is to assist eligible undertakings which are either manufacturing companies or internationally traded companies employing more than 10 people. If an undertaking (solely) sells poppy seeds, then this would not be an eligible undertaking as they would be either a retailer or distributor.

Food manufacturing companies are eligible for funding consideration in line with Enterprise Ireland’s eligibility criteria and also any relevant regulatory or legislative guidance.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (374)

Michael McGrath

Question:

374. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if assistance can be provided to a representative body (details supplied) in drawing up operational guidelines for reopening indoor play centres in the context of Covid-19; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12017/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government, having considered the expert public health advice provided by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), approved the rephasing of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business on 19 June. Apart from some exceptions, most sectors are now being brought forward to Phase 3, beginning on Monday 29 June. Full details are available at https://www.gov.ie/en/news/58bc8b-taoiseach-announces-roadmap-for-reopening-society-and-business-and-u/

Under the rephased Roadmap, all indoor and outdoor amenities for children can reopen on 29 June.

My Department continues to contribute to the considerations around rephasing of the Roadmap and I welcome the clarity this brings for business. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the lifting of restrictions are informed by the public health advice.

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.

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/.

As we move forward on reopening of society and business, it is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of the remaining restrictions will be informed by the public health advice at the time.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (375)

Robert Troy

Question:

375. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the supports being put in place to assist event and art workers; if a business support grant of 20% of 2018 turnover for SMEs in the event and art sector will be considered; if she will further consider a reduced VAT rate of 9% for the events and arts sector for a period of three years; and if consideration will be given to the removal of commercial rates for empty places of entertainment. [12024/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has introduced a comprehensive package of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, the pandemic unemployment payment for the self-employed, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs. Full details on all COVID19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

This package is a significant step-up in the supports available for all businesses in all sectors at this very difficult time. The measures have been developed to meet the varying needs of Irish enterprise and they are very specifically targeted by size, sector and need and are targeted at vulnerable but viable companies.

There are a number of loan schemes which have been put in place to assist businesses. The Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps (businesses of up to 499 employees) is operated by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and is supported by the InnovFin SME Guarantee facility.

The Future Growth Loan Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps currently makes loans available with a term of 8-10 years and is operated by (SBCI) through participating lenders.

The new €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme to aid SMEs is a further development of the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme already available. The Scheme will be available to all SME sectors. The implementation of this Scheme will require primary legislation, the drafting of which has commenced.

In addition to this new package of liquidity measures, the full range of Enterprise Ireland, Design and Crafts Council, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant and advisory supports continue to be available to eligible firms to help with strategies to access finance, commence or ramp-up online trading activity, reconfigure business models, cut costs, innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness.

Any eligible business, including the self-employed, can apply for the following supports. The most appropriate support will depend on the characteristics of the business.

- MicroFinance Ireland can provide loans of up to €50,000 as an immediate measure to specifically deal with exceptional circumstances that micro-enterprises – (any business -Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company with less than 10 full time employees and annual turnover of up to €2m)- are facing.

- Local Enterprise Offices have moved training programmes, workshops and networking meet-ups online, covering areas such as cash management in a crisis, leading your business through COVID-19 and advice for employers impacted by the crisis. Training programmes are free of charge and places can be booked online, through your Local Enterprise Office.

- For existing companies and potential start-ups that meet eligibility criteria (such as employing 10 or fewer people with the potential for growth and job creation), Local Enterprise Offices can also offer financial supports to help manage current market challenges such as Business Priming Grants, Business Expansion Grants, Feasibility Study Grants and Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters Grant

I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to work with my colleagues across Government and with all stakeholders, to examine all such appropriate business supports to assist enterprises, including self-employed service providers, impacted by Covid-19.

The Deputy may wish to note the recent announcement by An Taoiseach and the Minister for Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht of a total of €20 million to be allocated to the Arts Council bringing its allocation this year to €100 million. A further €5 million will be available for other measures, including securing the future of key cultural and museum spaces and facilities throughout Ireland, and the production of high-quality digital art and on-line performances. Further details are available on gov.ie.

Government will continue to explore funding potential for all enterprises as they work through the challenges facing them. I will keep the supports provided under review and continue to support businesses as they work through the challenges facing them.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (376)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

376. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if correspondence received from an organisation (details supplied) regarding support for small businesses will receive a response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12029/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart grant is designed to help small and micro commercial enterprises to reopen. The grant is being paid using the Local Authorities Commercial Rates System as the most efficient means of delivery. The grant is the amount of the 2019 rates assessment subject to a minimum grant of €2,000 and a maximum of €10,000.

To qualify for a grant, an eligible business:

- Must have a turnover of less than €5m and have 50 or less employees.

- Must have suffered a projected 25%+ loss in revenue from 1st April 2020 to 30th June 2020.

- Must commit to remain open or to reopen if it was closed.

- Must also declare the intention to retain employees that are benefitting from the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS).

In addition, the grant is aimed at independent and commercially trading enterprises that:

- Are reliant solely on local trading income;

- Are financially independent from any group structure;

- Have suffered significant financial losses;

- Have had to bear ongoing fixed costs or faced costs associated with re-opening the business;

- Provide local paid employment.

The aim is to get these businesses up and running, trading as normally as possible so that they can retain employees.

The Restart Grant support is just one part of the wider €12bn suite of supports for commercial firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help those businesses to continue trading and to maintain employment.

The unprecedented circumstances of the COVID19 global pandemic has resulted in a swiftly evolving landscape for enterprises. I can assure the Deputy that the Government will continue to use all available tools at its disposal to support businesses and ensure their survival.

Full details on all COVID19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

Question No. 377 answered with Question No. 368.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (378)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

378. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if business grant support of 20% of 2018 turnover will be approved for SMEs in the event and arts sector to aid with rent and bank loan payments. [12098/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has introduced a comprehensive package of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, the pandemic unemployment payment for the self-employed, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs. Full details on all COVID19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

This package is a significant step-up in the supports available for all businesses in all sectors at this very difficult time. The measures have been developed to meet the varying needs of Irish enterprise and they are very specifically targeted by size, sector and need and are targeted at vulnerable but viable companies.

There are a number of loan schemes which have been put in place to assist businesses. The Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps (businesses of up to 499 employees) is operated by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and is supported by the InnovFin SME Guarantee facility.

The Future Growth Loan Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps currently makes loans available with a term of 8-10 years and is operated by (SBCI) through participating lenders.

The new €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme to aid SMEs is a further development of the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme already available. The Scheme will be available to all SME sectors. The implementation of this Scheme will require primary legislation, the drafting of which has commenced.

In addition to this new package of liquidity measures, the full range of Enterprise Ireland, IDA, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant and advisory supports continue to be available to eligible firms to help with strategies to access finance, commence or ramp-up online trading activity, reconfigure business models, cut costs, innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness.

Any eligible business, including the self-employed, can apply for the following supports. The most appropriate support will depend on the characteristics of the business.

- MicroFinance Ireland can provide loans of up to €50,000 as an immediate measure to specifically deal with exceptional circumstances that micro-enterprises – (any business -Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company with less than 10 full time employees and annual turnover of up to €2m)- are facing.

- Local Enterprise Offices have moved training programmes, workshops and networking meet-ups online, covering areas such as cash management in a crisis, leading your business through COVID-19 and advice for employers impacted by the crisis. Training programmes are free of charge and places can be booked online, through your Local Enterprise Office.

- For existing companies and potential start-ups that meet eligibility criteria (such as employing 10 or fewer people with the potential for growth and job creation), Local Enterprise Offices can also offer financial supports to help manage current market challenges such as Business Priming Grants, Business Expansion Grants, Feasibility Study Grants and Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters Grant

I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to work with my colleagues across Government and with all stakeholders, to examine all such appropriate business supports to assist enterprises, including self-employed service providers, impacted by Covid-19.

The Deputy may wish to note the recent announcement by An Taoiseach and the Minister for Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht of a total of €20 million to be allocated to the Arts Council bringing its allocation this year to €100 million. A further €5 million will be available for other measures, including securing the future of key cultural and museum spaces and facilities throughout Ireland, and the production of high-quality digital art and on-line performances. Further details are available on gov.ie.

Government will continue to explore funding potential for all enterprises as they work through the challenges facing them. I will keep the supports provided under review and continue to support businesses as they work through the challenges facing them.

Programme for Government

Questions (379)

Alan Kelly

Question:

379. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if a copy of all briefing documents provided to Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party for their programme for Government negotiations will be provided. [12142/20]

View answer

Written answers

I understand that the Department of the Taoiseach will be arranging for the publication of any material that may have been provided by Government Departments to Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party during Government formation negotiations.

Question No. 380 answered with Question No. 365.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (381)

Imelda Munster

Question:

381. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the reason charity shops are not eligible for restart grants; and if she will consider amending the terms of the grant to include them. [12193/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant is aimed at commercial business. We have sought to prioritise commercial entities that are totally dependent on their trading income which in turn creates paid employment locally and will drive economic activity and get money circulating. Within our limited funding, the aim is to get these businesses back up and running, trading as normally as possible so that they can retain employees.

Charity Shops, which are not solely dependent on trading for their income are not eligible on the grounds that they may have access to fundraising or contributions from a parent organisation or other sources.

The €250m Restart Grant is just one of a range of supports provided by the Government to support businesses, employers and employees on foot of the crisis.

My colleagues Michael Ring TD, the Minister for Rural and Community Development and Seán Canney TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development, on Friday, 8th May announced the launch of a €40 million package of supports specifically for Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises. The package consists of:

- A €35 million ‘COVID-19 Stability Fund’ which will provide a level of support to qualifying organisations who are most in need and have seen their trading and/or fundraising income drop significantly during the crisis; and

- A €5m Government commitment to a Philanthropy Fund, (Innovate Together) which will focus on supporting responses to the COVID-19 crisis that require innovative and adaptive solutions to existing and emerging challenges.

The Stability Fund is being administered by Pobal and the Government will continue to support the needs of different sectors with well-tailored and targeted initiatives.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (382)

Martin Heydon

Question:

382. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the level of funding that has been drawn down by businesses up to 5 June 2020 under the various Covid-19 business supports compared to the level of approvals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12325/20]

View answer

Written answers

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.

Details of the business supports which are administered by enterprise agencies and other bodies on behalf of my Department are available on my Department's website: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/ .

Details of the uptake of these supports are updated every week on my Department’s website at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Publication-files/Take-up-of-DBEI-COVID-19-Business-Supports.pdf.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (383)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

383. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the grants and financial supports available for taxi drivers and other self-employed service providers whose businesses have been negatively impacted by Covid-19; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12336/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has introduced a €12bn package of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, the pandemic unemployment payment for the self-employed, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs. Full details on all COVID19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

This package is a significant step-up in the supports available for all businesses in all sectors at this very difficult time. The measures have been developed to meet the varying needs of Irish enterprise and they are very specifically targeted by size, sector and need and are targeted at vulnerable but viable companies.

There are a number of loan schemes which have been put in place to assist businesses. The Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps (businesses of up to 499 employees) is operated by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and is supported by the InnovFin SME Guarantee facility.

The Future Growth Loan Scheme open to eligible SMEs and small mid-caps currently makes loans available with a term of 8-10 years and is operated by (SBCI) through participating lenders.

The new €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme to aid SMEs is a further development of the existing Credit Guarantee Scheme already available. The Scheme will be available to all SME sectors. The implementation of this Scheme will require primary legislation, the drafting of which has commenced.

In addition to this new package of liquidity measures, the full range of Enterprise Ireland, IDA, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant and advisory supports continue to be available to eligible firms to help with strategies to access finance, commence or ramp-up online trading activity, reconfigure business models, cut costs, innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness.

Any eligible business, including the self-employed, can apply for the following supports. The most appropriate support will depend on the characteristics of the business.

- MicroFinance Ireland can provide loans of up to €50,000 as an immediate measure to specifically deal with exceptional circumstances that micro-enterprises – (any business -Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company with less than 10 full time employees and annual turnover of up to €2m)- are facing.

- Local Enterprise Offices have moved training programmes, workshops and networking meet-ups online, covering areas such as cash management in a crisis, leading your business through COVID-19 and advice for employers impacted by the crisis. Training programmes are free of charge and places can be booked online, through your Local Enterprise Office.

- For existing companies and potential start-ups that meet eligibility criteria (such as employing 10 or fewer people with the potential for growth and job creation), Local Enterprise Offices can also offer financial supports to help manage current market challenges such as Business Priming Grants, Business Expansion Grants, Feasibility Study Grants and Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters Grant

I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to work with my colleagues across Government and with all stakeholders, to examine all such appropriate business supports to assist enterprises, including self-employed service providers, impacted by Covid-19.

Government will continue to explore funding potential for all enterprises as they work through the challenges facing them. I will keep the supports provided under review and continue to support businesses as they work through the challenges facing them.

My colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport may also be able to provide more specific guidance in the context of businesses operating in the transport sector, such as taxi providers.

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