Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the extension of the increased cost of business, ICOB, scheme and the changes to the PRSI and VAT thresholds, which is something I and my colleagues in the Regional Group brought to Government some weeks back in a Private Member's motion. I wish to ask about the participation rate. How many businesses are accessing ICOB? What consideration has been given to those businesses that are not paying rates because their rates are bundled up with their rent, specifically those whose landlords cannot apply either, which means they cannot access to the scheme? How are those businesses to be supported?

Has the Government looked at other businesses that are very exposed because they are in labour-intensive sectors? These businesses face increases in associated employment costs, particularly in the areas of childcare, grooming, leisure and homes industries. Some of these businesses are really suffering, and while the ICOB scheme and some of the other initiatives the Minister announced are welcome, they are not going to fundamentally change the cost perspective for these businesses.

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