There have been mixed views today among Clare businesses who’ve been reacting to the government’s July Stimulus Package.
The multi-billion-euro plan includes grants for businesses, a reduction in the VAT rate, as well as an extension to the Wage Subsidy Scheme and supports for the unemployed.
The Government last night announced it’s historic 7 billion euro July stimulus package, which is aimed at kickstarting the economy in the second half of the year and into 2021
The most costly elements of the programme are the extension of the wage subsidy scheme and the pandemic unemployment payment, which will both be continued until April next year, but the amount being paid will reduce over time.
The President of Ennis Chamber has welcomed the government’s package, and says he’s confident it will give a kickstart to struggling businesses.
Allen Flynn, owner of the Old Ground Hotel in the town, admits that it didn’t deliver everything he had hoped for, but overall, he’s pleased.
B&B providers are among the sectors to benefit from another element of the scheme, the expansion of the Restart Grant which is now worth at least €4,000.
Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey says this will benefit 271 providers here, and one of those, Scariff-based Teresa Browne, says it’s badly needed.
Under the plan’s ‘stay and spend’ scheme, people can get up to 125 euro back on 625 euro spent on accommodation or food bills.
However, it’s only valid between October and April, and the lowest earners on some social welfare schemes won’t benefit because of the way it is administered.
Lahinch hotelier Michael Vaughan believes it could have been handled differently.
But Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD says the programme’s aim of increasing footfall in towns and villages must be centre stage as the country moves forward.
Meelick Deputy Cathal Crowe says getting people back into our shops is paramount, as businesses look to gain more confidence too.
