Power Up appeals process opens for misclassified Mayo businesses

Small businesses across Mayo that were previously excluded from crucial government supports due to classification errors will now have a chance to appeal, thanks to a newly launched scheme announced today by Minister of State Alan Dillon.

The Power Up appeals process, which opened on Thursday, July 24, is aimed at a specific group of businesses in the retail, hospitality, and beauty sectors that were incorrectly categorised under the original Increased Cost of Business (ICOB 1) scheme.

As a result of this misclassification, they were unable to access subsequent rounds of support under ICOB 2 and the more recent Power Up grant.

Speaking on the launch, Minister Dillon said the move fulfils a key promise made in the Programme for Government. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and it is only right that those who were unintentionally excluded from vital supports are given a fair opportunity to appeal and access the funding they deserve,” he said.

Minister Dillon also praised the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and Mayo County Council for their work in implementing the system, calling it a collaborative effort to ensure fairness for small business owners. “This is about ensuring no eligible business is left behind,” he said.

All Mayo businesses that received ICOB 1 but missed out on ICOB 2 will be contacted directly by the Council via letter and email, with details on how to apply. To submit an appeal, businesses must upload a valid tax clearance certificate, confirm they are still trading, and verify their existing bank details.

Successful applicants will receive a €4,000 flat rate payment, plus 50% of their 2023 commercial rates bill. Payments will begin rolling out from August, 8.

The appeals portal will remain open until, August 15.

Local business owners are encouraged to check their eligibility and act swiftly.

“We listened to the concerns of business owners and acted,” Minister Dillon said. “This appeals process is a practical and targeted response to a very specific issue.”

For more information, businesses should contact Mayo County Council or visit the official appeals portal.