Businesses reopening can avail of two-week restart payment, says Higgins

Gary Ibbotson 11 May 2021

The Government has announced a two-week restart payment scheme for businesses in the process of reopening as the restrictions are lifted.

Emer Higgins, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid-West said the payments should benefit businesses attempting to restart.

“Any business in Dublin Mid-West currently availing of the Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS), that can reopen as restrictions are eased, should avail of the double restart week payments for two weeks, subject to the statutory maximum of €5,000 per week.

“This is designed to help our local businesses in meeting the costs of reopening as they exit the scheme.

“I know that barbers, hairdressers and other personal service in the local community are working really hard to get up and running now that they can welcome customers back.

“I for one am really looking forward to getting back into the salon chair!”

Deputy Higgins said that it’s “important for our local businesses to be aware of this additional support and claim the grants available to ensure that those who were open before the pandemic can reopen, and crucially, stay open.

“I’m aware that hairdressers and barbers in Dublin Mid-West are also struggling with a skills shortage in their industry, and the hiring of new workers after the past year might be difficult for some salons.

“I was delighted to see Minister Simon Harris announce the expansion of the National Hairdressing Apprenticeship last weekend which will help salons take on apprentices and hopefully get back on their feet sooner than might have otherwise been the case.

“We understand that businesses will need support for some time, even if they are re-opening over the coming weeks, as capacity issues continue to challenge businesses due to social distancing and other ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

“The double CRSS payment is just one example of how we will support businesses to get back on their feet, just as we have supported them throughout the pandemic.

“The payment can be claimed at the end of the restriction period for the relevant industry, and our local businesses should apply via their CRSS claim portals on ROS,” Deputy Higgins said.

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