Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

150. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports available for small businesses who are struggling to reopen in the weeks ahead with a turnover of less than €50,000 and who are not eligible for the business grants available due to their size; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30906/21]

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Small Business Assistance Scheme for COVID was introduced to help businesses not eligible for the Government’s COVID Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) and the Fáilte Ireland Business Continuity grant or other direct sectoral grant schemes.

The 2nd and expanded phase of this scheme is now open for applications through Local Authorities.

I recognise that there were some businesses that didn't meet the eligibility criteria for SBASC and that is why earlier this month the Government agreed to expand the SBASC scheme which will now take into account businesses who do not pay rates and also businesses that have a turnover below €50,000.

Businesses who do not pay rates will now be able to apply for a grant of €4,000 and businesses who have a turnover of between €20,000 and €49,999 will be able to apply for a grant of €1,000. The purpose of this scheme is to help businesses with fixed costs associated with running a business. The closing date for receipt of applications to Local Authorities is 21st July.

Further details of the scheme including all eligibility criteria is available on my Department's website www.enterprise.gov.ie and on Local Authority websites.