Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2021
72. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of County Clare enterprises that that have applied to the small business assistance scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30048/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe total number of Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID (SBASC) applications for County Clare is 97. Of that figure to date 75 have been approved for payment, and one is still being assessed. 21 applications have been refused.
Refusals have occurred due to eligibility requirements such as businesses not meeting the turnover criteria, turnover was not down 75% during the eligibility period, incomplete application form, the business was in receipt of CRSS or they were not in a rateable premises.
As you may be aware I recently announced an expanded SBASC phase 2 scheme which will be open for applications in early June with a closing date of 21st July. Phase 2 has been expanded to include businesses working from a non rateable premises and those whose turnover is below €50,000.
Businesses who are working from non rateable premises and meet all other eligibility criteria will receive a €4,000 grant and businesses whose turnover is below €50,000 and meet all other eligibility criteria will receive €1,000 grant. These businesses have been ineligible for schemes in the past and it is my intention to ensure that these businesses receive some state support during these difficult time. The purpose of these grants are to help meet fixed costs associated with running a business.
Further details of this expanded SBASC scheme will be available shortly on my Department's website and on Local Authority websites who will once again administer the scheme.
