Minister Peter Burke pictured speaking at Soltec’s 30th birthday celebrations earlier this year.

FG backs business in Westmeath by cutting costs - Burke

Fine Gael will reduce costs for businesses in Westmeath through an ambitious plan if re-elected to government, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, has announced.

Within the first 100 days of Government, Fine Gael plans to implement a support package to reduce the VAT rate to 11 per cent for food-based hospitality, entertainment, and hairdressers, offer a PRSI rebate for SMEs, and establish a €4,000 energy grant for retail and hospitality businesses.

“This is good news for businesses across Westmeath,” commented Minister Burke.

“Fine Gael will reduce the VAT rate to 11 per cent for food-based and entertainment businesses, along with hairdressers. This permanent change will provide the certainty that businesses in Westmeath need.

“A three-year PRSI rebate will support businesses with fewer than 50 employees, and an ‘Energy Plus’ grant of €4,000 will assist retail and hospitality businesses with their energy costs.

“Alongside reducing costs, we are committed to backing our retail sector and supporting workers.

“Fine Gael will develop a Retail Crime Strategy and introduce a standalone criminal offence for assaulting retail workers. We will also equip the Gardaí with the necessary resources, including bodycams and facial recognition technology, to target repeat offenders.

“We will ensure that businesses across Westmeath gain the certainty they need, with clear regulations and reduced red tape.

“Revitalising our towns and villages is crucial to supporting local businesses. Fine Gael will launch a fund for ‘over-the-street’ roofs and expand the night-time economy to drive footfall back into our communities.

“Fine Gael is committed to supporting businesses in Westmeath. Ireland is a great place to start a business; we will make sure it’s a great place to grow and scale one,” Burke concluded.

Taoiseach Simon Harris added: “Small businesses are the backbone of the Irish economy. They are at the heart of every community, fuelling local economies and providing stable, quality jobs. They keep our main streets alive, and we need them to thrive.

“I have travelled the country, and I’ve heard loud and clear how business owners are struggling with rising costs. They need help and they need certainty.”