Minister pays tribute to resilience shown by family businesses

Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys has praised the resilience shown by family businesses who have been deeply affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Addressing an online conference organised by Family Business Network Ireland, Minister Humphreys said those in the retail space have been seriously hit by a decline in footfall.

She also singled out family businesses for their efforts they have made in terms of protecting their customers and staff amid the Covid-19 restrictions.

“I have no doubt that for so many of your members, this has been an extremely stressful and worrying time,” Minister Humphreys said.

“And I know too that you are all preparing for a difficult winter ahead as we try to live alongside this virus into next year.

“As a former Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, I know very well that football is a key indicator of strong retail trade.

“And of course, because of the public health restrictions, we have seen a significant decline in footfall which has put huge financial pressures on your members.

“So I would like to commend family businesses – large and small – for the innovative ways you have continued to keep trading and serving your customers’ needs during this crisis.

“Whether that’s developing your online presence or operating remotely.”

Minister Humphreys also spoke about the suite of supports that have been rolled out to protect businesses such as The Wage Subsidy Scheme, the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, cash grants, low cost loans, commercial rates waiver and a cut in VAT.

"I can tell you that I and my government colleagues are working extremely hard in terms of devising next month’s Budget, which will be crucial in supporting businesses into next year,” the Minister .