Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
105. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports that are available for new businesses that have been affected by the most recent Covid-19-related restrictions and that do not qualify for the Covid restrictions support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2404/22]
View answerThe Government has worked to support businesses, including new businesses, through these challenging times with a wide range of measures for firms of all sizes, which included the wage subsidy scheme, business continuity and trading online grants, COVID-19 Working Capital Scheme, the COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme, the Future Growth Loan Scheme, commercial rates waivers and warehousing of tax liabilities. Details of the supports can be found on my Department’s website: Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses - DETE (enterprise.gov.ie).
The Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) provides a subsidy to qualifying employers based on the numbers of paid and eligible employees on the employer’s payroll and charges a reduced rate of employer PRSI of 0.5% on wages paid which are eligible for the subsidy payment.
The EWSS has been a key element of the Government’s response to the continued Covid-19 crisis to support viable firms and encourage employment and it is widely recognised that the EWSS has played an essential role in supporting businesses, encouraging employment and helping to maintain the link between employers and employees during this pandemic.
Government policy has been that there will be no cliff edge to the support, at the same time, it is necessary to unwind and phase out this temporary, emergency support measure. An extension of EWSS in a graduated form until 30 April 2022 was put in place for employers validly registered on or before 31 December 2021 to participate in the scheme from 1 January to 30 April 2022, ensuring there will be no sudden end to the EWSS. Details of EWSS are available through the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie/en/employing-people/ewss/registration-and-operation-of-ewss.aspx.
It is important to note that all business supports are being kept under review to ensure that they are timely and target those that need them the most. I would urge businesses to make sure that they are aware of what is available to them and apply for the appropriate schemes.
