Business owners facing ‘uncharted waters’ shock
The Covid-19 pandemic will be remembered as one of the greatest economic shocks of all times, according to County Wexford Chamber CEO Fiona
Lewis, who said the Reviving Wexford plan is a blueprint to kickstart a journey back to economic recovery within the county.
Ms Lewis thanked the 217 businesses who responded, Professor Kevin Sludds for analysing the results, Shane Cullen for designing the document and Wexford County Council and South East Radio for their sponsorship.
County Wexford Chamber President Sean Reidy said: ‘County Wexford Chamber is all too aware of the seismic shift that has occurred in our economy due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The terms unprecedented, shuttered, social distancing and cocooning have now become familiar to us. Uncertainty and worry has dominated our lives and, tragically, some within our community have had to face the untimely loss of a loved one The spirit and resilience of people shines through at a time like this. This is very evident in the tremendous response we received to the Reviving Wexford survey.
A total of 217 businesses completed the detailed survey representing nine sectors, provided very comprehensive feedback, he said.
‘Such a reaction is highly gratifying, though knowing the community as I do, it is not surprising to me. Many original suggestions and novel ideas have come forward as to the supports required and innovations needed to ensure County Wexford is best placed to come out of this challenging period with optimism. The findings of the survey will form the basis of a sustained and highly focused process of lobbying government on behalf of the County Wexford business community.’
Describing the report as a roadmap to steer our way out of ‘uncharted waters’, he said the county’s great hope is through this ‘ highly targeted submission to central Government and relevant agencies’.
Necessary and defined financial and other supports are set out including outstanding new ideas and initiatives which can help County Wexford to emerge into a post coronavirus phase energised and ready to act.’