Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment to discuss the challenges facing small businesses

The following representatives will address the meeting: 

Tara Buckley - Director General, Retail Grocery Dairy and Allied Traders Association

John McGrane - Executive Director, Family Business Network

Vincent Jennings - Chief Executive, Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Maurice Quinlivan said: “Small Irish businesses have coped remarkably well over the past two years despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Brexit and inflation.”

“It is clear however that we are in uncertain times due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the cost of living crisis and small businesses are facing additional challenges due to energy costs, insurance, talent shortages and labour availability.”

“While much focus in recent times has been on job losses across the tech industry, small indigenous Irish businesses are the backbone of our economy and we must help to safeguard their future.” “We look forward to hearing the concerns of organisations representing SMEs and how best to address the issues facing them.”  

Watch the meeting live here or on the Oireachtas smartphone app for Apple and Android.