BUSINESSES impacted by the coronavirus could have their rates deferred until the end of May, Donegal County Council has indicated.
In a statement released in the last hour the local authority says each ratepayer will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. But businesses worst affected by the Covid-19 outbreak will be considered for a two month rates break.
Head of Finance with Donegal County Council, Richard Gibson, said, “The impact for businesses is not uniform and for this reason we must consider each situation on a case-by-case basis. We recognise that some businesses, especially those in the hospitality and tourism sectors, leisure, childcare and many other small and medium sized retailers, are facing cash-flow and liquidity challenges.”
The Council added that it is cognisant of the fact that, as the Covid-19 situation continues, the adverse impact on businesses will evolve and the categories of ratepayers experiencing difficulties may change.
Director of Economic Development with Donegal County Council, Garry Martin, added, “We are aware of the impact the measures introduced to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 are having on the business sector in Donegal and we are committed to supporting businesses during these challenging times and in helping them access government supports as and when required. I would urge businesses to keep in contact and engage with us in the coming weeks and months.”
The Council’s Local Enterprise Office is making free online and telephone mentoring available to any business seeking assistance in addressing emerging issues and in developing their cash flow projections and short action plans to address the identified issues. In addition, Business Continuity Vouchers of €2,500 to support business continuity preparedness, innovation and productivity are also being made available from the Local Enterprise Office.
For more information visit www.localenterprise.ie/donegal, email the Local Enterprise Office at info@leo.donegalcoco.ie or call 074 91 60735.
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