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Thursday, 30 Jul 2020

Written Answers Nos. 113-137

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (113)

Martin Kenny

Question:

113. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in Sligo and Leitrim county councils; the amount that has been allocated to each authority; the number of businesses in each county that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20277/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested by the Deputy and as of 24 July 2020:

Sligo County Council has received 632 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 614 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €3,007,469 allocated by this Department.

Leitrim County Council has received 373 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 334 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €1,429,630 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (114)

Martin Kenny

Question:

114. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for supports under the various schemes for businesses impacted by Covid-19 that have been received from businesses in counties Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Donegal; the number that have been processed to date; the number that have been successful; the total amount has been allocated to the businesses; the total amount that was sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20279/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government previously 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 COVID-19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

On July 23rd the Government announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19.  Further details on the July Jobs Stimulus are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/July/23072020.html

The Tables below set out the number of applications for supports received from businesses in County Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal and Roscommon under the various schemes.

Tables of uptake:  Sligo

Scheme

Number   of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Total Value sought

Business Financial Planning

 

 

13

 

 

N/A

 

 

7

 

 

€34,695

 

 

N/A

Online Retail Scheme

 

7

 

N/A

 

4

 

€142,950

 

N/A

Restart Grant-

 

632

 

619

 

614

 

€3,007,469

 

€2,114,562

Business Continuity Vouchers

282

274

207

€498,329

Clients applied for a BCV and   applications were assessed and approved up to a max. amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

112

9*

103**

€226,998

 

E-merge

2

2

1

€2800

€2800

Emergency Business Solutions

1

1

1

€2,250

€2,250

Scheme

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/a

39

15

€ 1,075,000

Not   available

Business Continuity   Grant

1

1

1

€2,500

€2,500

Microfinance Ireland   COVID-19 Loan

7

Not available

3

€67,000

Not available

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

Tables of uptake:  Leitrim

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Total Value sought

Business Financial Planning

<5

 N/A

1

 

€4,998

 

N/A

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

<5

N/A 

2

€5,000

N/A

Online Retail Scheme

<5

N/A 

1

€35,986

N/A

Restart Grant-

373

365

334

€1,429,630

€958,645

Business Continuity Vouchers

158

141

134

€319,372

Clients   applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max.   amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

 

80

 

22*

 

58**

 

€140,883

 

Emergency Business Solutions

2

2

2

€4,500

€4,500

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

19

5

€ 655,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

7

Not available

4

€105,000

Not   available

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

Tables of uptake:  Donegal

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Total Value sought

Business   Financial Planning

13

 N/A

12

€59,295

N/A

Lean   Business Continuity Voucher

13

 N/A

13

€32,500

N/A

Online   Retail Scheme

19

N/A

8

€273,878

N/A

Restart Grant-

1618

1404

1317

€7,402,598

€5,364,152

Business Continuity Vouchers

678

671

573

€911,560

Clients   applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max.   amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

 

261

 

56*

 

205**

 

€484,410

 

E-merge

7

7

5

€14,000

€14,000

Emergency Business Solutions

3

3

2

 

€4,500

 

€4,500

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

104

27

 

€ 1,596,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

25

Not available

17

 

€359,000

 

Not available

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

Tables of uptake:  Roscommon

Scheme

Number   of firms / applications

Number   Processed to date

Number   of successful applicants

Amount   allocated

Total   Value sought

Business Financial Planning

10

N/A 

10

€49,795

N/A 

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

<5  

 N/A

 

 

2

 

 

€5,000

 NA

Online Retail Scheme

<5

N/A

4

€67,390

N/A

Restart Grant-

539

525

510

€2,759,580

€1,674,871

Business Continuity Vouchers

232

230

 

 

186

 

 

€364,419

Clients   applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max.   amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

104

16*

 

88**

 

€204,986

 

E-merge

1

1

1

€2800

€2800

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

27

 

6

 

€ 360,000

Not available

Business Continuity Grant

1

1

1

€2,500

€2,500

Microfinance Ireland   COVID-19 Loan

11

Not available

5

€110,000

Not available

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

Micro Finance Ireland applications per Local Enterprise Office are as follows:

LEO   Sligo

3

LEO   Leitrim

1

LEO   Roscommon

11

LEO   Donegal

10

 

Local Enterprise Office also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring and Training as per details below:

 

Mentoring Participants

Training Participants

LEO Sligo

84

335

LEO   Leitrim

75

477

LEO   Roscommon

129

468

LEO   Donegal

91

1,621

Later this year the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery. It will set out how we secure our public finances in a world where we must live with Covid-19, while driving efforts to decarbonise our economy and prepare for the next phase of technological transformation.

Data Centres

Questions (115)

Denis Naughten

Question:

115. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the discussions his officials have had with IDA Ireland with regard to the development of data centres in line with the policy of locating them in areas with grid capacity and only in cases in which there is an employment dividend associated with their development; if an evaluation has been conducted by his Department of the estimated impact of all 55 current data centres and the over 30 planned data centres on the cost of electricity to other commercial and industrial users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20284/20]

View answer

Written answers

In June 2018, the ‘Government Statement on the Role of Data Centres in Ireland’s Enterprise Policy’ was published by my Department, following consultation across Government, including with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment. The Statement sets out clearly that the existing demand for data centre development poses opportunities and challenges for Ireland and that a planned approach to addressing these is required.

Since the publication of the Government Statement in 2018, IDA Ireland has increased its emphasis on promoting a range of regional options for data centre investment. They have identified specific sites in regions throughout Ireland that are potentially suitable for accommodating the sustainable development of large scale data centre projects in terms of proximity to necessary energy and other appropriate infrastructures, subject to the required planning and environmental oversight. IDA Ireland only facilitate investment in projects that are deemed likely to deliver real regional economic benefits  and do not provide any financial supports for data centres in the Dublin region. Officials in my Department engage regularly with IDA Ireland in relation to enterprise policy, and related matters, including on this topic.

Data centres present challenges given that they are very energy intensive and, in the Dublin region in particular, there are electricity grid infrastructure capacity constraints. While this is not research conducted within my Department, Eirgrid has undertaken extensive analysis with regard to future electricity grid requirements including the impacts of data centre development through for example the 'Tomorrow's Energy Scenarios' process. Eirgrid has previously made it clear that there may in future be a need to limit the connection of large new electricity demands in certain geographic areas. Investments in the electricity transmission and distribution systems are planned and implemented by Eirgrid and ESB Networks in line with national energy policy and under the supervision of the Commission for Regulation of Utilities. Under the 2019 Climate Action Plan and the Government Statement, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland are leading a working group to encourage investment by large energy users, such as data centres, in renewable electricity generation using Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPA); officials in my Department and IDA Ireland have been engaging with this work.

Data centres are important to ensuring that Ireland continues to be a leader in the digital economy. Ireland has one of Europe’s largest clusters of data centres as a stable energy grid, temperate climate and significant skills base makes Ireland an attractive country for this form of investment. Data centres are an increasingly important part of the digital and communications sectors and are core infrastructure in the remote working and digital services economy.

EU Directives

Questions (116)

Alan Kelly

Question:

116. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the measures adopted to date and the measures that he plans to adopt to give effect to the EU Directive 2019/1 (details supplied); his views on the capability of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to fulfil its increased mandate under the Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20377/20]

View answer

Written answers

Directive 2019/1/EU to empower the competition authorities of the Member States to be more effective enforcers and to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market is due for transposition by 4 February 2021. In transposing the ECN+ Directive, the Department is liaising with the Department’s Legal Advisors and the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) on what additional powers could be given to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and ComReg in order to fully transpose the Directive. It is intended to transpose the ECN+ Directive by primary legislation by the transposition date.

The Directive contains a framework of rules to ensure that National Competition Authorities (NCAs) have the necessary powers and resources to effectively apply Articles 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. The CCPC, ComReg, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Irish Courts are National Competition Authorities (NCAs) in Ireland for the purposes of EU competition law.

The Department chairs an Interdepartmental Committee comprising of representatives from the Department of Justice and Equality, the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, the Courts Service, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, ComReg and the CCPC to contribute to the drafting of the General Scheme of a Bill. A comprehensive request for legal advice is awaited from the AGO to facilitate finalisation of the General Scheme.

Once the Department receives the AGO’s legal advice the full scope of the implementing legislation will be decided by the Cabinet prior to the publication of the General Scheme. In bringing forward this legislation we seeking to implement the Programme for Government commitment to enable the CCPC to make greater use of administrative penalties to sanction rogue operators.

The Department has been liaising closely with the CCPC in order to identify and ensure that the necessary resources will in place to effectively implement the new provisions in the forthcoming legislation.

Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

Questions (117)

Alan Kelly

Question:

117. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation his views on the performance of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in view of its failure to uncover price fixing or bid rigging activity here in 2019; and his views on the capability of the commission to properly enforce national and EU competition rules with respect to cartels and bid rigging going forward. [20378/20]

View answer

Written answers

Section 9 (5) of the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 provides that the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is independent in the performance of its functions. As enforcement matters generally are part of the day-to-day operational work of the CCPC, I, as Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, have no direct function in these matters.

However, the CCPC has advised me that in 2019, the CCPC referred a file to the DPP in relation to an investigation into bid-rigging in the procurement of publicly-funded transport services in the south west region (including Limerick, Clare, South Galway, Kerry, North Tipperary and Cashel). The bid-rigging file sent to the DPP was the culmination of an in-depth investigation, involving a wide number of parties and multiple lines of enquiry. As is the case for the majority of cartel investigations in Ireland and across the world, this investigation took place over several years. The CCPC’s 2019 Annual Report (attached) provides further details of the CCPC’s investigation.

The detection, investigation and prosecution of cartels is one of the highest priorities for the CCPC. However, a cartel is the most serious breach of competition law. It is a criminal offence, which has a very high evidential standard of “beyond reasonable doubt”. This has obvious implications for the standard of evidence required to both open an investigation and for the CCPC to make the decision to prepare a file for the DPP.  This is not unique to the enforcement of competition law in Ireland as the difficulties of proving anti-competitive behaviour to a criminal standard of proof are well recognised. By way of illustration, the Competition and Markets Authority in the UK has had five criminal convictions since 2008, the CCPC has had 35 since 2006, including 2 convictions in 2017 for bid-rigging in the commercial flooring sector. At present, competition law in Ireland only allows for a company to be fined if a court finds that there has been a criminal breach of competition law.

The Programme for Government commits to enabling regulatory bodies such as the CCPC to have greater use of administrative penalties to sanction rogue operators. Primary legislation is under preparation in my Department will incorporate the transposition of Directive EU 2019/1 (ECN+) and come into effect in 2021. This will result in the introduction of a number of significant changes to the current competition law enforcement regime in Ireland, in particular the requirement to introduce non-criminal financial sanctions for breaches of EU competition law or breaches of both EU and Irish competition law. The purpose of the Directive is to ensure that national competition authorities have the appropriate public enforcement tools in order to bring about a common competition enforcement area. This legislation will increase the tools at the disposal of the CCPC to take enforcement action against breaches of competition law.

CCPC Annual report

Employment Rights

Questions (118)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

118. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the legislation he will bring forward in the next Dáil term to protect and strengthen workers’ rights [20394/20]

View answer

Written answers

Employment rights and the legislation relating to these rights are currently under the remit of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.  These will shortly move to my Department as part of a wider transfer of functions.  

Ireland already has a comprehensive body of employment legislation, in respect of which the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is mandated to secure compliance and we have a strong track record when it comes to protecting the rights of workers.  Ireland’s employment rights legislation protects all employees who are legally employed on a contract of service basis.

My colleague, Mr Damien English T.D. Minister of State with responsibility for Employment Affairs and Retail Businesses, will be examining this area as a priority. Where any new legislation is proposed, my Department will engage in extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders, to ensure that an appropriate balance is struck between the rights of workers and the interests of business.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (119)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

119. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if there will be additional measures in addition to the July stimulus brought in to support businesses in budget 2021. [20395/20]

View answer

Written answers

COVID-19 has had an enormous impact on communities, businesses, families and individuals across the country. The priority of the Government remains the wellbeing of our people and communities. We are now increasing our focus on business and on getting as many people as possible back to work.

The July Stimulus Package will help get Ireland’s businesses back on their feet and get as many people as possible back to work quickly. It is the next stage in Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, building on the extensive enterprise and employment supports already deployed. The July Stimulus will build economic confidence, within public health constraints, and deliver immediate effective supports to get people back to work.

Businesses will be able to benefit from many of the actions within the July Stimulus including:

- A new Employment Wage Support Scheme that will succeed the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme and run until April 2021;

- An enhanced Restart Grant for Enterprises that will be open to more businesses with the maximum amount available increasing to €25,000 and the minimum payment doubled to €4,000. Businesses that have already accessed the Restart Grant will be eligible to apply for a top up payment. Some businesses not previously included in the scheme, such as B&Bs, will now be eligible.;

- A waiver of commercial rates for the six months to end-Sept 2020;

- The €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme that will see Government provide an 80% guarantee for a wide range of credit products from €10,000 up to €1 million up to a maximum term of 6 years;

- A package of liquidity and enterprise investment measures to help small and micro companies through additional resources for MicroFinance Ireland (MFI) and the Local Enterprise Offices including reduced interest rates on lending for micro and small businesses;

- To provide immediate cash-flow support to previously profitable companies, the early carryback of trading losses will be allowed, leading to an immediate refund of some or all of corporation tax paid;

- There will be a 6-month reduction in the standard rate of VAT from 23% to 21%, effective from the beginning of September;

- Businesses affected by Covid-19 will be able to delay payment of their PAYE and VAT debts in part of in full for a set period with no interest or penalties; and

- The interest rate applying to agreed repayments of all tax debt (where agreement has been reached prior to 30 September 2020) will be reduced to 3%.

The full list of actions within the July Stimulus and how to avail of them can be found at www.gov.ie/jobsstimulus .

As I have said before, we needed a July Stimulus Package that was broad in reach to assist the variety of businesses most affected. I have also noted that the July Stimulus is on a continuum of Government measures and represents the next step in how we stabilise the business impact. I have underlined that in developing the July Stimulus, we must look ahead to ensuring economic recovery. The National Economic Plan, to be developed in parallel with the next Budget, will be crucial in this respect. It will go beyond the issue of business supports and set out a range of actions to be developed across Government to realise economic recovery. All Government Departments will have a role in achieving this ambition.

Insurance Costs

Questions (120)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

120. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if he will work with the Minister for Finance to ensure that legislation is brought forward to reduce insurance costs for businesses in view of the crippling cost of business insurance. [20398/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Programme for Government states:

“Insurance costs are a hugely significant issue for businesses, motorists, households and a range of sporting, community, and voluntary groups. We need to ensure that insurance acts as a safety net that enables our economy and our society to fully function. Addressing high claim pay-outs and competitive issues will be critical in building an insurance system that is affordable and reliable and which underpins a vibrant economy.”

Apart from motor insurance, which falls under the remit of the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, policy responsibility for insurance is a matter for the Minister for Finance. However, many of the measures that need to be taken fall under the remit of different Ministers, and it must be acknowledged that there is no one individual policy or legislative change that will, on its own, solve the issue of insurance availability and affordability.

I have already convened meetings with Ministerial colleagues, including the Minister for Finance and the Minister of State at the Department of Finance with responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance, to progress cross-governmental action on insurance reform. As part of this, along with five Ministerial colleagues, met with the Alliance for Insurance Reform who raised a range of issues including the level of awards for general damages, the application of the duty of care, insurance fraud and COVID-19 related insurance issues.

I will continue to work with my colleague the Minister for Finance, as well as other Ministerial colleagues to deliver the Programme for Government commitments on insurance reform.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (121)

Martin Browne

Question:

121. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications that have been received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in the Tipperary County Council area; the amount of funding that has been allocated to the authority; the number of businesses in County Tipperary that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20412/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020; Tipperary County Council has received 1,729 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 1,471 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €7,114,049 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (122)

Martin Browne

Question:

122. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for supports under the various schemes for businesses impacted by Covid-19 that have been received from businesses in County Tipperary; the number of these that have been processed to date; the number that have been successful; the amount allocated to these businesses; the amount sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20414/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government previously introduced a 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 COVID-19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

On July 23rd the Government announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19.  The priority of the Government remains the wellbeing of our people and communities. We are now increasing our focus on business and on getting as many people as possible back to work.  Further details on the July Jobs Stimulus are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/July/23072020.html

The Table below sets out the number of applications for supports received from businesses in County Tipperary under the various schemes.

Tables of uptake:

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Total Value sought

Business Financial Planning

20

N/A

0

€0

N/A

Lean Business Continuity   Voucher

6

N/A

0

€0

N/A

Sustaining Enterprise Fund

1

N/A

1

€400,000

N/A

Online Retail Scheme

11

N/A

6

€217,793

N/A

Restart Grant

1729

1561

1471

€7,114,049

€5,190,415

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

70

20

€ 2,145,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland   COVID-19 Loan

29

Not available

15

€466,000

Not available

E-merge

3

1

1

€2,800

€2,800

Emergency Business Solutions

2

2

2

€4,500

€4,500

Business Continuity Vouchers

623

623

606

€1,500,000

Clients applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max. amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

222

33*

189**

€442,730

 

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

The Local Enterprise Office in Tipperary submitted 8 Micro Finance applications and also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring Support to 106 participants and Training Support to 895 participants.

Later this year the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery. It will set out how we secure our public finances in a world where we must live with Covid-19, while driving efforts to decarbonise our economy and prepare for the next phase of technological transformation.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (123)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

123. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications that have been received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in County Donegal; the funding that has been allocated to the authority; the number of businesses in County Donegal who have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20441/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020, Donegal County Council has received 1,618 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 1,317 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €7,402,598 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (124)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

124. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for supports under the various schemes for businesses impacted by Covid-19 that have been received from businesses in County Donegal; the number of these that have been processed to date; the number that have been successful; the amount that has been allocated to these businesses; the amount that was sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20443/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government previously introduced a  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 COVID-19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

On July 23rd the Government announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19.  Further details on the July Jobs Stimulus are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/July/23072020.html

The Tables below set out the number of applications for supports received from businesses in County Donegal under the various schemes.

Tables of uptake:  Donegal

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Total Value sought

Business Financial Planning

 13

 N/A

12

€59,295

N/A

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

 13

 N/A

 13

€32,500

N/A

Online Retail Scheme

19

N/A

8

€273,878

N/A

Restart Grant-

1618

1404

1317

€7,402,598

€5,364,152

Business Continuity Vouchers

678

671

573

€911,560

Clients applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max.   amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

 

261

 

56*

 

205**

 

€484,410

 

E-merge

7

7

5

€14,000

€14,000

Emergency Business Solutions

3

3

2

 

€4,500

 

€4,500

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

104

27

 

€1,596,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

25

Not available

17

€359,000

Not available

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

The Local Enterprise Office in Donegal submitted 10 Micro Finance applications and also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring Support to 91 participants and Training Support to 1,621 participants.

 

Later this year the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery. It will set out how we secure our public finances in a world where we must live with Covid-19, while driving efforts to decarbonise our economy and prepare for the next phase of technological transformation.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (125)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

125. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if bed and breakfasts can apply for the restart grant (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20605/20]

View answer

Written answers

On 23rd July 2020 I announced that in order to further support enterprises as the economy reopens and resumes activity, further grant funding of €300m will be provided to businesses through an enhanced Restart Grant.

The maximum grant available will rise to €25,000 (up from €10,000) and the minimum payment will be €4,000 (up from €2,000). Firms that accessed the Restart Grant will be eligible to apply for a second top-up payment to a total combined value of the revised minimum and maximum grant levels.

The criteria for accessing the scheme will include Enterprises that have:

- 250 employees or less;

- Turnover of less than €100,000 per employee; and

- Reduced turnover by 25% as a result of COVID-19

Under the revised Restart Grant, support will also be provided for enterprises that could not access the original grant scheme. Non-rated B&Bs which were previously excluded from the original scheme will now be eligible to apply for a grant payment of €4,000.

Applications for the enhanced grant will open in due course through the Local Authorities and non-rated B&Bs can apply for funding through Fáilte Ireland. Further details will be provided in the coming days.

Departmental Staff

Questions (126)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

126. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide a schedule of advisers, special advisers and seconded civil servants currently working in his Department appointed and-or recruited and-or in an acting capacity; the roles and responsibilities attributed to each; and the salary scale for the role in tabular form. [20612/20]

View answer

Written answers

On the commencement of every Dáil, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform issues guidelines setting out the arrangements for the staffing of Ministerial Offices. The appointment of Special Advisers is subject to section 11 of the Public Service Management Act 1997. 

The Guidelines for the 33rd Dáil, which incorporate the principles of section 11 of the PMSA Act, are currently awaiting Government approval.   

The appointment of individual Special Advisers is a matter for each Government Minister subject to the terms set out in the aforementioned guidelines, although the appointments are also subject to formal Government approval.  At this stage, no Special Advisers have been formally appointed to my Department by the Government.   

The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform must be notified of the rate of salary to be paid in all cases for Special Advisers.  These rates will then be published on the website of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. 

With regards to seconded civil servants working in the Ministers' offices in my Department, similarly no formal appointments have been made pending Government approval of the Guidelines for the 33rd Dáil.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (127)

Johnny Guirke

Question:

127. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in counties Meath and Westmeath by local authority; the amount allocated by authority; the number of businesses in the counties by local authority that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20712/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020; Meath County Council has received 1,341 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 1,205 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €6,201,184 allocated by this Department.

Westmeath County Council has received 919 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 826 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €4,135,434 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (128)

Johnny Guirke

Question:

128. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for supports under the various schemes for businesses impacted by Covid-19 that have been received from businesses in counties Meath and Westmeath by local authority; the number that have been processed to date; the number that have been successful; the amount allocated to the businesses; the amount sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20714/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government previously introduced a 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 COVID-19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

On July 23rd the Government announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19.  The priority of the Government remains the wellbeing of our people and communities. We are now increasing our focus on business and on getting as many people as possible back to work.  Further details on the July Jobs Stimulus are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/July/23072020.html

The Tables below sets out the number of applications for supports received from businesses in County Meath and County Westmeath under the various schemes.

Tables of uptake: Meath

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Amount Requested

Business Financial Planning

21

N/A

20

€99,250

N/A

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

15

N/A

15

€37,500

N/A

Sustaining Enterprise Fund

1

N/A

1

€250,000

N/A

Sustaining Enterprise Fund – Small Enterprise

<5

N/A

0

€0

N/A

Online Retail Scheme

10

N/A

3

€112,216

N/A

Restart Grant

1341

1287

1205

€6,201,184

€4,801,086

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

93

23

€3,020,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

32

Not available

16

€374,000

Not available

E-merge

5

3

3

€8,400

€8,400

Emergency Business Solutions

5

5

4

€9,000

€9,000

Business Continuity Vouchers

576

516

448

€1,012,013

Clients applied for a BCV and   applications were assessed and approved up to a max. amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

354

131*

223**

€532,943

N/A

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

Tables of uptake: Westmeath

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Amount Requested

Online Retail Scheme

10

N/A

7

€256,370

N/A

Business Financial Planning

10

N/A

10

€49,793

N/A

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

<5

N/A

4

€10,000

N/A

Restart Grant

919

898

826

€4,135,434

€2,887,778

SBCI COVID-19 WCS

N/A

40

7

€985,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

25

Not available

18

€357,000

Not available

E-merge

1

0

0

€0

€0

Emergency Business Solutions

1

1

0

€0

€0

Business Continuity Vouchers

552

472

424

€959,184

Clients applied for a BCV and applications were assessed and approved up to a max. amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

177

33*

144**

€338,191

N/A

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

The Local Enterprise Office in Meath submitted 14 Micro Finance applications and also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring Support to 76 participants and Training Support to 780 participants.

The Local Enterprise Office in Westmeath submitted 16 Micro Finance applications and also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring Support to 199 participants and Training Support to 1116 participants.

Later this year the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery. It will set out how we secure our public finances in a world where we must live with Covid-19, while driving efforts to decarbonise our economy and prepare for the next phase of technological transformation.

Departmental Expenditure

Questions (129)

Bríd Smith

Question:

129. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the payments for services or goods by his Department to a company (details supplied) since 2015. [20769/20]

View answer

Written answers

Since 2015, the Department has made one payment to Sodexo Ireland in December 2019. This related to catering services totalling €5,277.01, inclusive of VAT, for a "Future Jobs Ireland" conference.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (130)

Martin Kenny

Question:

130. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in Sligo and Leitrim county councils; the amount of funding allocated to each authority; the number of businesses in the counties that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20799/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020; Sligo County Council has received 632 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 614 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €3,007,469 allocated by this Department.

Leitrim County Council has received 373 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 334 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €1,429,630 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (131)

Pa Daly

Question:

131. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in County Kerry; the amount of funding allocated to the authority; the number of businesses in the county that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20845/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020; Kerry County Council has received 1,931 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 1,474 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €7,483,917 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (132)

Pa Daly

Question:

132. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for supports under the various schemes for businesses impacted by Covid-19 that have been received from businesses in County Kerry; the number that have been processed to date; the number that have been successful; the amount allocated to the businesses; the amount sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20847/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government previously introduced a 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 COVID-19 supports for business are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/

On July 23rd the Government announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19.  Further details on the July Jobs Stimulus are available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/July/23072020.html .

The Table below sets out the number of applications for supports received from businesses in County Kerry under the various schemes.

Tables of uptake:

Scheme

Number of firms / applications

Number Processed to date

Number of successful applicants

Amount allocated

Amount Requested

Online Retail Scheme

18

N/A

10

€381,203

N/A

Business Financial Planning

18

N/A

17

€84,248

N/A

Lean Business Continuity Voucher

10

N/A

9

€22,500

N/A

Sustaining Enterprise Fund

2

N/A

1

€500,000

N/A

Sustaining Enterprise Fund – Small Enterprise

1

N/A

0

€0

N/A

Restart Grant

1931

1856

1474

€7,483,917

€6,184,801

SBCI- COVID-19 WCS

N/A

99

31

€3,115,000

Not available

Microfinance Ireland COVID-19 Loan

46

Not available

23

€625,000

Not available

Emergency Business Solutions

1

1

0

€0

€0

Business Continuity Vouchers

291

252

190

€168,674

Clients applied for a BCV and   applications were assessed and approved up to a max. amount of €2,500

Trading Online Vouchers

240

101*

139**

€325,666

 

*Applications currently being processed with clients

**Processed and final approval communicated to clients

 

The Local Enterprise Office in Kerry submitted 27 Micro Finance applications and also provided Covid-19 related Mentoring Support to 95 participants and Training Support to 950 participants.

 

Later this year the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery. It will set out how we secure our public finances in a world where we must live with Covid-19, while driving efforts to decarbonise our economy and prepare for the next phase of technological transformation.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (133, 134)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

133. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the method by which grants will be calculated for businesses qualifying for the enhanced restart grant scheme. [20862/20]

View answer

Pearse Doherty

Question:

134. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the estimated number of businesses that will qualify for the enhanced restart grant scheme; the quantum of grant it is estimated they will receive disaggregated by grant amount in intervals of €1,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20863/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 134 together.

On 23rd July 2020 I announced that in order to further support enterprises as the economy reopens and resumes activity, further grant funding of €300m will be provided to businesses through an enhanced Restart Grant.

The additional €300m being provided in the stimulus package will allow further categories of businesses to benefit in that businesses impacted by a 25% reduction in turnover due to COVID-19 restrictions or downturn in trade will be eligible provided they commit to reopening and to hiring and sustaining employment.

The grant will be based on the amount of the rates assessment for the premises for 2019 (excluding arrears) with a new minimum grant of €4,000 and a maximum grant of €25,000 (Increased from €2,000 min and €10,000 max).

Eligible firms include medium sized firms with up to 250 employees, as well as small firms (increased from 50 employees) with a turnover of up to €25m, and turnover of less than €100k per employee, increased from turnover limit of €5m. Therefore, a business with 50 employees and €5m turnover, 100 employees and less than €10m turnover, and so on with a business with 250 employees having a max. of less than €25m turnover are eligible.

Commercial trading businesses that paid rates and were previously excluded on the basis that they were eligible for other government schemes will also now be eligible for the Restart Grant. This will enable commercial sports businesses, trading charity shops, creches and GP surgeries to apply for the minimum €4,000 grant.

B&Bs in non-rated premises will be eligible to apply for the minimum €4,000 grant from Fáilte Ireland. The hospitality sector, restaurants, pubs, activity centres and tourist attractions, e.g., galleries, museums are eligible if they are operating from a rated premise.

The funding allocated to the enhanced scheme is based on an estimate of the total number of previously excluded businesses who are now eligible to apply once they meet the criteria under the new rules. It is not possible at this moment in time to provide the detailed breakdowns which the Deputy seeks.

Application forms for the enhanced scheme will be available from the 31 Local Authorities, with more details to be announced in the coming days.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (135)

Violet-Anne Wynne

Question:

135. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in County Clare; the funding allocated to the authority; the number of businesses in County Clare that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20902/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

In response to the information requested and as of 24 July 2020; Clare County Council has received 1,239 applications made to the scheme in total. Of this amount, 998 businesses have been approved for funding from the initial funding tranche of €5,638,513 allocated by this Department.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (136)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

136. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the details of the €10 million restart fund for the tourism sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20970/20]

View answer

Written answers

As part of the July Stimulus, we announced a significant expansion of the Restart Grant scheme.  One specific objective in doing so was to offer better supports to the tourism sector.   The total amount of extra funding allocated to the scheme is €300m and I will announcing further details in the coming days.

As part of the July Stimulus my colleague, the Minister for Culture, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht, has recently announced an additional €10m Restart Fund for the Tourism sector to help cover the costs of adapting their premises to meet public health requirements.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (137)

Patricia Ryan

Question:

137. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications that have been received for the restart fund for micro and small businesses in the Kildare County Council area; the amount of funding that has been allocated to the authority; the number businesses in County Kildare that have received funding under the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21017/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Restart Grant scheme is just one part of the wider suite of measures for firms of all sizes, which includes grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst SMEs.

This package is a significant step-up in assistance 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.

Kildare County Council has to date received the sum of €6,678,602 in an initial funding tranche from this Department.

As of 24 July 2020, Kildare County Council has received a total of 1,284 applications from businesses seeking Restart Grant funding.

Of this amount, 1,046 businesses have been approved and have received funding.

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