Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
53. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if recognition will be given to the fact that when sales recommence for travel agents they will be taking in deposits which will be passed on immediately thus giving these businesses no commission income to pay overheads; if this will be factored into business supports made available to this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27462/21]
View answerI am acutely aware of the difficulties that the necessary ongoing Covid-19 restrictions are putting on businesses right across the country, including travel agents. 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), Small business assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC), low-cost loans, the deferral and warehousing of tax liabilities and the waiver of commercial rates. The level of business supports is unprecedented.
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. Details of the wide range of supports available are on my Department’s website.
The details of the second phase of SBASC are also currently being finalised and the local authorities should be in a position to accept applications very shortly. I would encourage business owners to regularly check their local authority website for updates.
I would also suggest that business owners contact their Local Enterprise Office who can signpost them and advise them of supports that may be available for their business.
I can assure the Deputy that the Government is continuing to review the range of assistance schemes and eligibility criteria to ensure we have the right mix for the recovery.
On the specific question raised, the Deputy may wish to follow up with my ministerial colleagues in the Department of Transport.
