Skip to main content
Normal View

Wednesday, 24 Mar 2021

Written Answers Nos. 176-196

Redundancy Payments

Questions (176)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

176. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he and-or his officials have engaged with a company (details supplied) in respect of redundancy packages in order to secure the statutory two weeks that will be given an additional six weeks' pay for each year of service, as is industry standard. [15090/21]

View answer

Written answers

The announcement of 150 redundancies in this company is very regrettable and I extend my sympathies to the workers who have lost their jobs and to the families affected.  I understand that the manufacturing and production operations will not be impacted. As a client of Enterprise Ireland, the Agency has had discussions with the senior management team of the company on their proposals and will be working to maintain the maximum number of jobs in Ireland.  I have asked my officials to keep me updated on developments and to see how we can be of assistance.  

Negotiations on redundancy terms are a voluntary matter between a company and its employees.  Our Agencies will continue to work in a coordinated way to support those who have lost their jobs with welfare entitlements, job-search assistance and upskilling opportunities available to all impacted workers as they assess their options.

Departmental Transport

Questions (177)

Duncan Smith

Question:

177. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of vehicles owned or leased and operated by his Department and agencies and semi-State companies under his remit broken down by the number of ICE and non-ICE vehicles and fuel category, that is, petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15117/21]

View answer

Written answers

The Department and its Offices, which include the Companies Registrations Office, the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland, the Labour Court, the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement and the Workplace Relations Commission do not own or lease any vehicles.

The day-to-day operations of the Agencies are a matter for the relevant Board and senior management team and such operations do not fall within my Ministerial remit.

Intellectual Property

Questions (178)

Gary Gannon

Question:

178. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the engagement by Ireland on the position taken by the European Commission at the March 2021 World Trade Organization meeting on the proposed temporary TRIPS waiver on intellectual property in respect of Covid-19 vaccine and technology; if Ireland supported the decision by the European Commission to oppose such a waiver; his views on the implications of this decision for global public health and the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15130/21]

View answer

Written answers

International Trade is a competence of the EU under the Treaties.  In exercising that competence at the WTO, the European Commission engages with Member States, including Ireland, through a variety of Committee and Working Parties/Groups, including on intellectual property. 

The EU’s current position on the proposed waiver is that the WTO international agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (The TRIPS Agreement), allows countries the flexibility to respond to the concerns raised by proposers of the wavier.  Specifically, the TRIPS Agreement allows compulsory licensing which is when a government permits an entity to produce the patented product or process without the consent of the patent owner. 

The EU continues to be committed to an open and comprehensive dialogue with all WTO members to explore how the multilateral rules-based trading system can best support universal and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines and treatments.  

The EU considers that the COVAX Facility, the international initiative to ensure global supply and access to COVID vaccines, is the mechanism that is best placed to ensure that high-income countries finance the vaccines and support the developing countries to secure their share of global supply.

Ireland has consistently championed collaborative responses to the pandemic, with a focus on ensuring that the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable are served by our collective effort.  As a member of the global health community, Ireland continues to play an active role in ensuring fair and equitable access to vaccines for all.  This includes supporting the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Global Vaccine Alliance and the Global Fund, to develop, produce and equitably distribute effective technologies in the COVID-19 global response.

Intellectual Property

Questions (179)

Martin Browne

Question:

179. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the recent discussions on intellectual property waivers for vaccines at the WTO (details supplied); his position on the issue; and if the Irish ambassador to the WTO has clarified the position of Ireland on the proposal. [15179/21]

View answer

Written answers

International Trade is a competence of the EU under the Treaties.  In exercising that competence at the WTO, the European Commission engages with Member States, including Ireland, through a variety of Committee and Working Parties/Groups, including on intellectual property.  My Department is engaging with the Department of Foreign Affairs on this and other issues relating to Covid-19.       

The EU’s current position on the proposed waiver is that the WTO international agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (the TRIPS Agreement) allows countries the flexibility to respond to the concerns raised by proposers of the waiver.  Specifically, the TRIPS Agreement allows compulsory licensing which is when a government permits an entity to produce the patents products or process without the consent of the patent owner. 

The EU continues to be committed to an open and comprehensive dialogue with all WTO members to explore how the multilateral rules-based trading system can best support universal and equitable access to COVID-10 vaccines and treatments.

The EU considers that the COVAX Facility, the international initiative to ensure global supply and access to COVID-19 vaccines, is the mechanism that is best placed to ensure that high-income countries finance the vaccines and support the developing countries to secure their share of global supply. 

Ireland has consistently championed collaborative responses to the pandemic, with a focus on ensuring that the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable are served by our collective effort.  As a member of the global health community, Ireland continues to play an active role in ensuring fair and equitable access to vaccines for all.  This includes supporting the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Global Vaccine Alliance and the Global Fund, to develop, produce and equitably distribute effective technologies in the COVID-19 global response.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (180)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

180. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps that will be taken to assist towns and retailers to prepare for the reopening of the economy; the guidance on the type of easing of restrictions that is being planned for the next review of Covid-19 measures on 5 April 2021; if there is a return to level 4 as per the framework for living with Covid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15209/21]

View answer

Written answers

I understand this is an incredibly difficult time for families and businesses across the country and I would like to thank them for their efforts at this difficult time. By each of us following the spirit of the rules and working together we can hopefully ease some restrictions soon.

S.I. No. 701 of 2020 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) Regulations 2020 and S.I. No. 4 of 2021 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 (https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/) clearly sets out the temporary restrictions under Level 5. A list of essential services can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c9158-essential-services/ and the list of essential retail outlets at Level 5 can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/60ecc-essential-retail-outlets-for-level-5/.

Under Level 5, only essential retail outlets will remain open and all measures in Level 5 will stay in place until at least April 5 2021. Further information can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/.

COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 - The Path Ahead  which can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/, sets out the approach to the next phase, which is subject to ongoing review and taking into account the evolving epidemiological situation.  All decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions are informed by the public health advice at the time.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) ‘The Work Safely Protocol’ incorporates the current advice on the Public Health measures needed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community and workplaces. The Protocol is available on www.gov.ie. The HSA 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 addition, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) have also produced two guidance documents, one for the retail Sector and one for Shopping Centres. Both documents can be found on www.nsai.ie

The Government has introduced a wide range of supports to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and they can be found on the Department’s website https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

In relation to towns, the Programme for Government has committed in outline to the development of a Town Centre First (TCF) policy, modelled on the scheme developed by the Scottish Government, and informed by the Town Centre Living pilot initiative overseen by the Department of Rural and Community Development. This includes the implementation of a strategic approach to town centre regeneration by utilising existing buildings and unused lands for new development.

In accordance with this commitment, a TCF inter-Departmental Group (IDG) has now been established to consider the regeneration of our towns and villages. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment are represented on the IDG. The Department of Community and Rural Development and the Department of Housing, Planning, and Local Government are co leading on this initiative. It is anticipated that any recommendations forthcoming from the TCF approach will be developed over the coming months.

It is important to monitor gov.ie for the latest information, public health advice and guidelines from Government in relation to COVID-19.

Consumer Protection

Questions (181)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

181. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to an influx in cases of pyramid schemes in operation; and the steps being taken to combat same. [15217/21]

View answer

Written answers

Part 4 of the Consumer Protection Act 2007 makes it an offence to establish, operate, promote, knowingly participate in, or induce or attempt to induce another person to participate in, a pyramid promotional scheme.  The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is responsible for the enforcement of this and other provisions of the Act and is independent in the exercise of its investigative and enforcement functions.

I am aware of recent reports of a pyramid scheme that is being promoted on social media channels. On 4 March 2021, the CCPC issued a warning about this scheme and encouraged consumers to contact them if they had been approached to participate in it. The CCPC have advised me that they are currently investigating this scheme.  I would urge anyone invited to invest in this scheme not to do so and to contact the CCPC immediately.

Joint Labour Committees

Questions (182)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

182. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will request the creation of a joint labour committee for early years education as a matter of urgency. [15275/21]

View answer

Written answers

I can confirm a request was received from Minister O'Gorman in relation to the establishment of a JLC for the early years education sector and it is currently receiving attention.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (183)

Kathleen Funchion

Question:

183. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will re-examine the minimum turnover criteria for small to medium-sized businesses looking to avail of the small business assistance scheme (details supplied). [15324/21]

View answer

Written answers

As you are aware, the Government has put in place a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), the COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates.

You will also know that Budget 2021 provided a significant package of tax and expenditure measures to build the resilience of the economy and to help vulnerable but viable businesses across all sectors.

In relation to the most recent scheme I announced, the Small Business Assistance Scheme (SBASC), the aim of which is to provide grants to businesses ineligible for the Government’s other existing schemes such as CRSS and is designed to help with fixed costs.  Businesses down 75% or more in turnover and in receipt of a rates bill may benefit, including those that commenced after the 1st November 2019 where their turnover is below projections. 

Businesses will be required to be in receipt of a rates bill from their local authority for their business in order to qualify.  The intention behind this provision is to assist businesses operating from fixed premises to meet some of the ongoing fixed costs of maintaining those premises.   

In relation to the eligibility requirement of €50,000 turnover, it is important to remember that this scheme has been introduced to meet the unavoidable costs that businesses operating from a fixed premises incur whether they are open or not.  Analysis carried out for similar schemes has shown that where annual turnover is less than €50,000, then it is likely that most costs will be payroll based.  As you know, Government already provides subsidies or other income supports in the form of the EWSS and the PUP. 

While there will undoubtedly be exceptions, it is probable that at these lower levels of turnover, the ongoing costs will generally not impact on the business’s potential to re-open as and when restrictions ease.

I would urge business owners to seek the supports available. I would also suggest they contact their Local Enterprise Office who can signpost them and advise them of supports that may be available for their business.

Further details of the Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID are available on my Department's website www.enterprise.gov.ie.

I and my colleagues across Government will continue to keep the range of measures under review with the goal of setting our country towards economic recovery. The Government is also determined to ensure there will be no cliff-edge scenario and businesses will continue to be supported as much as possible.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (184)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

184. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is considering making it permissible for shoe stores to offer appointments for sizing children's feet under public health restrictions. [15350/21]

View answer

Written answers

I understand this is an incredibly difficult time for families and businesses across the country and I would like to thank them for their efforts at this difficult time. By each of us following the spirit of the rules and working together we can hopefully ease some restrictions soon.

S.I. No. 701 of 2020 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) Regulations 2020 and S.I. No. 4 of 2021 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 (https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/) clearly sets out the temporary restrictions under Level 5. A list of essential services can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c9158-essential-services/ and the list of essential retail outlets at Level 5 can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/60ecc-essential-retail-outlets-for-level-5/.

Under Level 5, only essential retail outlets will remain open and all measures in Level 5 will stay in place until at least April 5 2021. Further information can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/.

COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 - The Path Ahead  which can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/, sets out the approach to the next phase, which is subject to ongoing review and taking into account the evolving epidemiological situation. All decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions are informed by the public health advice at the time.

Level 5 does not restrict people from purchasing any product, it does however restrict people from physically going into non-essential stores. This is to stop people making unnecessary journeys, congregating and browsing for non-essential goods, to limit the spread of the virus. Under the current temporary restrictions while click and collect from non-essential retail outlets is no longer permitted, click or phone and delivery can continue.

Retailers can and have made arrangements, on compassionate grounds, for individual customers to urgently purchase a non-essential item in store. This is only in exceptional circumstances where it is not possible to plan ahead and avail of remote ordering services such as in emergencies, e.g., admission to hospital.

We are asking retailers to exercise their best judgement and common sense on a case by case basis, to ensure those requiring urgent access to a non-essential item are accommodated.

Minister English has met regularly with Retail Forum members and representatives from the retail grocery and distribution sector to continuously assess adherence to the public health restrictions.

The Government has introduced a wide range of supports to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and they can be found on the Department’s website https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

It is important to monitor gov.ie for the latest information, public health advice and guidelines from Government in relation to COVID-19.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (185)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

185. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has considered the admission of the events industry to supports and schemes (details supplied) until six months after mass gatherings are permitted again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15395/21]

View answer

Written answers

I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country.

With this in mind the Government has put in place a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), the COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), the Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. These are in addition to financial assistance and other schemes provided to businesses via Enterprise Ireland, InterTrade Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices.

I recently announced the new Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID.  This scheme is now open for applications through Local Authorities and will provide a €4,000 grant for businesses for the first quarter of this year. The closing date for Local Authorities to receive applications is 21st April, 2021.   

The Scheme is open to companies, self-employed, sole traders or partnerships, with a minimum turnover of €50,000 and are not owned and operated by a public body. The Scheme is open to firms that currently employ less than 250 and with current turnover of less than €25m.

Businesses down 75% or more in turnover among those expected to benefit the scheme.  The scheme is available to businesses not eligible for CRSS, the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity Scheme, or the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Live Performance Support. A full list of the criteria is available on my website or the relevant local authority website.

Event companies if they meet the criteria for this scheme will be eligible for this grant. 

Full details of the wide range of COVID-19 schemes are available on my Department’s website at https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

I along with my Government colleagues are keeping the current COVID support schemes under review.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (186)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

186. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if an association (details supplied) will be recognised as the representative body for wedding planners in Ireland; and if discussions will take place between him and the association in respect of the recommencement of weddings. [15493/21]

View answer

Written answers

I understand the enormous difficulties the wedding industry is facing as the pandemic rolls on. I fully appreciate that it is one of the industries worst affected and for the longest and know that with the prospect of a second year of restrictions many in the sector must be fearing for their future.

The financial support the Government is providing businesses and workers affected by the pandemic is unprecedented. Almost a million people of working age are now in receipt of weekly payments including the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, Employment Wage Subsidy and Jobseekers Benefit or Allowance. Support for business includes the weekly CRSS payment for businesses forced to close their doors to the public, reduced VAT rates, a commercial rates holiday, the Sustaining Enterprise Fund, the Tourism Business Continuity Scheme as well as low-cost loans. 

The three main schemes, the CRSS, EWSS and PUP compare favourably with any other packages on offer in other countries. The new SBASC scheme I announced recently will provide funding of up to €8,000 for those businesses that are in receipt of a rates bill from their local authority. While the grant is modest, it will help smaller businesses in particular to cover these costs – rent, insurance, utilities, security. 

All decisions with regards the re-opening of sectors are based on the current public health advice. The revised plan for managing the virus – ‘COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021: The Path Ahead’ – can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c4876-covid-19-resilience-and-recovery-2021-the-path-ahead/

The ‘COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021: The Path Ahead’ sets out the phased in-school education and childcare services reinstatement from 1 March, staggered until 12 April. This will be alongside the scaling up of the vaccination programme, ensuring that all vaccine doses are administered to target groups as soon as possible.

Any further easing of restrictions after 5 April will require careful consideration. 

The Government does not take these decisions lightly, we are acutely conscious of the impact it will continue to have on businesses, which is why the Government has worked to support businesses through this difficult time with a comprehensive range of measures for firms of all sizes. This is a rapidly evolving and changing situation and the Government will continue to monitor the enfolding situation to ensure the correct balance between is found that protects and serves all of our citizens and businesses.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (187)

Chris Andrews

Question:

187. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports available to SMEs that opened from the beginning of January 2020 and that are now temporarily closed under the current lockdown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15505/21]

View answer

Written answers

I am acutely aware of the difficulties that these necessary ongoing Covid-19 restrictions are putting on all businesses right across the country.  Business owners are making sacrifices in order to protect their communities.

With that in mind, I recently announced the new Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID.  This scheme is now open for applications through Local Authorities and will provide a €4,000 grant for businesses for the first quarter of this year.  Closing date for Local Authorities to receive applications is 21st April, 2021.  A decision on the second quarter of this year will be made in due course.  

A business that started in business in January 2020 and is eligible based on the criteria may apply to their Local Authorities.

The Scheme is open to companies, self-employed, sole traders or partnerships, with a minimum turnover of €50,000 and are not owned and operated by a public body. The Scheme is open to firms that currently employ less than 250 and with current turnover of less than €25m.

Businesses down 75% or more in turnover among those expected to benefit the scheme.  The scheme is available to businesses not eligible for CRSS, the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity Scheme, or the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Live Performance Support.

The business must operate from a building, or similar fixed physical structure on which business rates are payable (mobile premises, or premises which are not permanently fixed in place, do not meet the definition of business premises nor do premises on which no rates are payable).

The turnover of the business over the claim period is estimated to be no more than 25% of the average weekly turnover of the business in 2019; or the projected average weekly turnover of the business for 1 January to 31 March 2021, for businesses that commenced after 1 November 2020.

The Government also introduced a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), the COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. 

I would urge business owner to seek the supports outlined above if they have not already done so. I would also suggest that a business owner should contact their Local Enterprise Office and they can signpost and advise on supports that maybe available.

The schemes are there to help meet fixed costs that cannot be avoided and to provide basic weekly income support up to maximum of €350 per week.  They are not created to provide compensation for loss of personal income above this level or compensation for loss of profits for any sector.

Full details of the wide range of COVID-19 schemes are available on my Department’s website at https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

I want to assure you that I and my colleagues across Government will continue to keep the range of measures under review.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (188)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

188. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if fixed costs supports will be provided for small and medium-sized enterprises in the events sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15509/21]

View answer

Written answers

I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country.

With this in mind the Government has put in place a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), the COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), the Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. These are in addition to financial assistance and other schemes provided to businesses via Enterprise Ireland, InterTrade Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices.

I recently announced the new Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID.  This scheme is now open for applications through Local Authorities and will provide a €4,000 grant for businesses for the first quarter of this year.  Closing date for Local Authorities to receive applications is 21st April, 2021. 

The Scheme is open to companies, self-employed, sole traders or partnerships, with a minimum turnover of €50,000 and are not owned and operated by a public body. The Scheme is open to firms that currently employ less than 250 and with current turnover of less than €25m.

Businesses down 75% or more in turnover among those expected to benefit the scheme.  The scheme is available to businesses not eligible for CRSS, the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity Scheme, or the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Live Performance Support.

The business must operate from a building, or similar fixed physical structure on which business rates are payable (mobile premises, or premises which are not permanently fixed in place, do not meet the definition of business premises nor do premises on which no rates are payable).

The turnover of the business over the claim period is estimated to be no more than 25% of the average weekly turnover of the business in 2019; or the projected average weekly turnover of the business for 1 January to 31 March 2021, for businesses that commenced after 1 November 2020.

Event companies if they meet the criteria for this scheme will be eligible for this grant.

Full details of the wide range of COVID-19 schemes are available on my Department’s website at https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

I along with my Government colleagues are keeping the current COVID support schemes under review.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (189)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

189. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the provisions in place to fund charity shops that are closed under level 5 restrictions. [15514/21]

View answer

Written answers

I am acutely aware of the difficulties that these necessary ongoing Covid-19 restrictions are putting on all businesses right across the country.  I know that Charities and charity shops are also struggling during these restrictions.  Individuals and businesses are making sacrifices in order to protect their communities.

With that in mind, I recently announced the new Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID.  This scheme is now open for applications through Local Authorities and will provide a €4,000 grant for businesses for the first quarter of this year.  Closing date for Local Authorities to receive applications is 21st April, 2021.  A decision on the second quarter of this year will be made in due course.

Charity shops may be eligible for this grant if the criteria for the scheme are applicable to them.

The Scheme is open to companies, self-employed, sole traders or partnerships, with a minimum turnover of €50,000 and are not owned and operated by a public body. The Scheme is open to firms that currently employ less than 250 and with current turnover of less than €25m.

Businesses down 75% or more in turnover among those expected to benefit the scheme.  The scheme is available to businesses not eligible for CRSS, the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity Scheme, or the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media’s Live Performance Support.

The business must operate from a building, or similar fixed physical structure on which business rates are payable (mobile premises, or premises which are not permanently fixed in place, do not meet the definition of business premises nor do premises on which no rates are payable).

The turnover of the business over the claim period is estimated to be no more than 25% of the average weekly turnover of the business in 2019; or the projected average weekly turnover of the business for 1 January to 31 March 2021, for businesses that commenced after 1 November 2020.

You should be aware that the Government also introduced a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. 

I would urge business owners including charity shops to seek the supports outlined above if they have not already done so. I would also suggest that you should contact the Department of Rural and Community Development who have developed a scheme who the charity sector.

Full details of the wide range of COVID-19 schemes are available on my Department’s website at https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

I want to assure you that I and my colleagues across Government will continue to keep the range of measures under review.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (190)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

190. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason a premises (details supplied) is closed under level 5 restrictions but wool and knitting materials can be purchased in some larger retail stores alongside other products deemed essential goods. [15515/21]

View answer

Written answers

I understand this is an incredibly difficult time for families and businesses across the country and I would like to thank them for their efforts at this difficult time. By each of us following the spirit of the rules and working together we can hopefully ease some restrictions soon.

Under Level 5, only essential retail outlets will remain open and all measures in Level 5 will stay in place until at least April 5 2021. Further information can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/. The decision to move to full scale Level 5 was not taken lightly and all factors were considered.

S.I. No. 701 of 2020 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) Regulations 2020 and S.I. No. 4 of 2021 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No. 10) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 (https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/) clearly sets out the temporary restrictions under Level 5. A list of essential services can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c9158-essential-services/ and the list of essential retail outlets at Level 5 can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/60ecc-essential-retail-outlets-for-level-5/.

COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 - The Path Ahead  which can be found on https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/, sets out the approach to the next phase, which is subject to ongoing review and taking into account the evolving epidemiological situation. All decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions are informed by the public health advice at the time.

Level 5 does not restrict people from purchasing any product, it does however restrict people from physically going into non-essential stores, including clothes stores. This is to stop people making unnecessary journeys, congregating and browsing for non-essential goods, to limit the spread of the virus.

Under the current temporary restrictions while click and collect of non-essential retail items is no longer permitted, click or phone and delivery can continue. 

Retailers can and have made arrangements, on compassionate grounds, for individual customers to urgently purchase a non-essential item in store. This is only in exceptional circumstances where it is not possible to plan ahead and avail of remote ordering services such as in emergencies, e.g., admission to hospital.

We are asking retailers to fully get behind the spirit of the regulations. In particular, we are asking retailers with mixed retail offering which have discrete spaces for essential and non-essential retail to make arrangements for the separation of relevant areas.

An Garda Síochána are engaging with retailers and enforcing the regulations where necessary.

We are asking retailers to operate staggered opening and closing hours, as well as facilitating starting and finishing hours, in order to minimise the impact on public transport and to continue to provide dedicated hours for vulnerable customers.

We are also asking retailers to exercise their best judgement and common sense on a case by case basis, to ensure those requiring urgent access to a non-essential item are accommodated.

Minister English has met regularly with Retail Forum members and representatives from the retail grocery and distribution sector to continuously assess adherence to the public health restrictions.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) ‘The Work Safely Protocol’ incorporates the current advice on the Public Health measures needed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community and workplaces. The Protocol is available on www.gov.ie. The HSA 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 addition, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) have also produced two guidance documents, one for the retail Sector and one for Shopping Centres. Both documents can be found on www.nsai.ie.

The Government has introduced a wide range of supports to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and they can be found on the Department’s website https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.

It is important to monitor gov.ie for the latest information, public health advice and guidelines from Government in relation to COVID-19.

Departmental Funding

Questions (191)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

191. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding support from the State and the National Parks and Wildlife Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15534/21]

View answer

Written answers

The Deputy's question is relevant to my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications under whose remit this matter falls.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (192)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

192. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports that will be put in place for SMEs following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15677/21]

View answer

Written answers

I recognise the impact that this pandemic is having on businesses right across the country.

With this in mind the Government has put in place a comprehensive package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, including the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), the COVID-19 Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), the Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. These are in addition to financial assistance and other schemes provided to businesses via Enterprise Ireland, InterTrade Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices.

Details of the wide range of supports available are on my Department’s website: Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses - DETE (enterprise.gov.ie)

I would urge business owners to seek the supports outlined above if they have not already done so. I would also suggest they contact their Local Enterprise Office who can signpost them and advise them of supports that may be available for their business.

The level of support now being provided to businesses across all sectors is unprecedented and ahead of that available in other jurisdictions. Our focus is to ensure the safety of our people and guide our economy towards recovery by ensuring that we had an appropriate mix of supports in place to support workers and businesses in moving between the levels of the COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021- The Path Ahead.

I and my colleagues across Government will continue to keep the range of measures under review with the goal of setting our country towards economic recovery. The Government is determined to ensure there will be no cliff-edge scenario and businesses will continue to be supported as much as possible.

Redundancy Payments

Questions (193)

Réada Cronin

Question:

193. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the actions his Department has taken to save jobs (details supplied); his plans to ensure that the employees affected will be guaranteed the industry-standard redundancy package of the statutory two weeks' with an additional six weeks’ pay for each year of service in circumstances in which the jobs cannot be saved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15798/21]

View answer

Written answers

The announcement of 150 redundancies in this company is very regrettable and I extend my sympathies to the workers who have lost their jobs and to the families affected.  I understand that the manufacturing and production operations will not be impacted. As a client of Enterprise Ireland, the Agency has had discussions with the senior management team of the company on their proposals and will be working to maintain the maximum number of jobs in Ireland.  I have asked my officials to keep me updated on developments and to see how we can be of assistance.  

I am informed that the proposed redundancies referred to in the question relate to back office functions. Enterprise Ireland has not directly supported these functions. Some of the staff now being made redundant may have availed of general training programmes which Enterprise Ireland supported. 

There is no recourse on the grants paid out already for these training programmes as the training has been carried out and the employees have been upskilled.  In that regard, the new skills are transferrable. However, no grants will be paid out on future claims related to these redundant roles.

Negotiations on enhanced redundancy are a voluntary matter between a company and its employees.  Our Agencies will continue to work in a coordinated way to support those who have lost their jobs with welfare entitlements, job-search assistance and upskilling opportunities available to all impacted workers as they assess their options.

Social Enterprise Sector

Questions (194, 195, 196)

John Lahart

Question:

194. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies currently registered as social enterprises with the Companies Registration Office. [15808/21]

View answer

John Lahart

Question:

195. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies that were registered as social enterprises with the Companies Registration Office in 2019. [15809/21]

View answer

John Lahart

Question:

196. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies that were registered as social enterprises with the Companies Registration Office in 2020. [15810/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 194 to 196, inclusive, together.

There is no specific legal form under which social enterprises must operate. A social enterprise operating under company law has various options available including registering as a company limited by guarantee (CLG) or as a private company limited by shares (LTD). Irrespective of the option chosen, the Companies Registration Office cannot readily identify companies as social enterprises and statistics are not available.

The Deputy may be aware that my colleague, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, has policy responsibility for social enterprise and further information may be available from that Department.

Top
Share