Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020

Tuesday, 15 September 2020

Questions (149)

Denis Naughten

Question:

149. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason businesses which failed to pay their rates demand for 2019 are able to draw down the restart grant based on the demand figure whereas business which obtained a reduction in their rates demand for 2019 are only able to avail of a restart grant based on the revised figure; his plans to review the anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23397/20]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment

The Restart Grant Plus is a key part of the government’s July Stimulus package, 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 actual or estimated commercial rates paid by a business form the basis of calculating the grant, rather than being a re-imbursement for the specific rates payment, which is why businesses which are in arrears on their rates are also eligible for the payment.  However, the Scheme is kept under constant review to address ongoing issues with the Scheme.  The apparent anomaly which the Deputy has brought to my attention will be further examined in that context.