Nessa Cosgrove welcomes the opening of Rates Refund Grant by Sligo County Council

SLIGO-STRANDHILL Local Election candidate, Nessa Cosgrove, has welcomed Sligo County Council's announcement that the long-awaited rates refund scheme is to open for small businesses.

As reported in last week's the Increased Cost of Business Grant was introduced as part of a suite of measures in Budget 2024 aimed at helping small businesses cope with the increased costs associated with running a business in the current climate.

At the time it was announced, business owners were advised that the grant, equivalent to 50% of commercial rates paid by small businesses in 2023, would be paid during the first quarter of 2024.

Nessa said: “Following my earlier call for clarification, businesses have been contacted by Sligo County Council informing them of the process

Sligo Weekender,

through which they will receive their rates refunds.

“At first glance it seems that the process is straightforward and not too onerous, and I will continue to liaise with small businesses to ensure that they receive these much-needed refunds in a timely manner.

“As everyone is aware, small businesses are the heart, the soul and the life-blood of commercial life within the county.

“They contribute massively towards the financial health of our county, through the rates which they pay each year.

“They contribute massively towards social and community life through direct and indirect employment, as well as through sponsorships, volunteering and charitable initiatives.”

Concluding, the Local Election candidate said: “Small businesses have faced a number of very challenging years, yet they continue to support our county.

“They provide inspiration and hope to others and they deserve the all the support the County Council, and its elected members can offer.

“I welcome the certainty and encouragement the roll-out of this scheme offers.”