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Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2020

Tuesday, 10 November 2020

Questions (71)

Martin Browne

Question:

71. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the pressure that a number of small businesses are under from their landlords during the current restrictions; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that many of these businesses are concerned for their future as they are being faced with rent bills even though their businesses are shut; his plans to provide assistance for these businesses to pay their rents; if he has been contacted by small businesses with similar concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35106/20]

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Written answers

I understand this is a difficult time for many businesses and that some firms are concerned about how they are going to continue to pay the rent due for their business premises. Throughout this crisis, the Government has been encouraging commercial tenants and landlords to engage with each other and have asked landlords to show forbearance where they can. Ultimately, it is in the best interest of both parties to come to a reasonable arrangement.

Ireland came through the initial economic shock with unparalleled levels of State intervention aimed at stabilising the economy and supporting businesses, employment and incomes. To date, over €24 billion had been made available in support measures, including through the July Jobs Stimulus and Budget 2021, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to stand behind businesses through this crisis. Businesses across the country will be able to benefit from commitments within the Budget including:

- The €3.4 billion Recovery Fund which will help people get back into work, training or education; by promoting investment and protecting jobs.

- The further extension of the EWSS well into 2021 ensures that the link between the employer and the employee is maintained and assists businesses to continue to trade in spite of reduced demand.

- The COVID Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) is being introduced to help those businesses who are severely restricted to meet ongoing costs through periods of restriction.

On 1st October, I published a new voluntary Code of Conduct between Landlords and Tenants for Commercial Rents. The Code, which is a commitment in the Programme for Government, has been developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including Ibec, Retail Excellence Ireland, Chambers Ireland and Irish Institutional Property. It is based on an approach taken in other jurisdictions, including Australia, France and the UK.

The Code sets out how both parties can work together to get through these uncertain times. Landlords should be willing to do what they can to help their tenants to continue to operate rather than facing the risk of a vacant premises and inability to obtain new tenants. Equally, tenants should pay what they can and speak with their landlord when difficulties arise.

The Code can be found on my Department’s website.

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