Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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I am very aware of the difficulties that businesses, including retailers, are facing due the current energy crisis.

Businesses now need help with their energy bills and that is why the Government introduced a significant package in the Budget to help businesses.

The Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme designed to support eligible businesses that have experienced a significant increase in their electricity and/or natural gas costs. Qualifying businesses will be entitled to claim a Temporary Energy Payment amounting to 40 per cent of eligible cost. Generally, a monthly cap of €10,000 per trade or profession will apply but this may increase to €30,000 for businesses that operate from more than one location and incur energy costs at each. This scheme is being run by the Revenue Commissioners and is now open and taking applications.

The reduced rate of VAT on gas and electricity from 13.5% to 9% has also been extended until the 28th February 2023.

We are introducing a €1.2 billion State-backed Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme to assist the wider business sector with liquidity and to invest in energy efficiency. A new State-backed Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme will also be launched next year.

Specific guidance to retailers about the current government schemes and supports in relation to energy costs and sustainability can be found on the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s website enterprise.gov.ie/en/publications/energy-and-sustainability-government-schemes-and-resources-for-retailers.html.

I chair the Retail Forum and the agenda, driven by Forum Members, will continue to address issues impacting on the sector.

This is an evolving situation, and the Government will keep it under review to ensure a targeted response for business