Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste. I get a huge number of contacts from companies, firms and retailers in County Clare in regard to the cost of energy and the impact it is having on their business, their ability to trade and their ability to retain employees. We are seeing a doubling and a trebling of costs. It is not before time that a significant package is put in place to help these traders.

The Tánaiste mentioned a €55 million green transition fund. That is very welcome but the retail sector is not eligible for that. I would ask that strong consideration be given to amending that and allowing retailers into that particular scheme. I would also encourage the Tánaiste to look at introducing a grant scheme for accelerated capital allowances to enable retailers in particular to upgrade their refrigeration so they are more efficient. The Tánaiste might come back to me on that.

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