Push on to support reopennig businesses
COUNCIL AND CHAMBER URGED TO HELP SECTOR
NEW ROSS Municipal District officials are working with the Chamber to help the town of New Ross and its businesses reopen over the coming weeks.
District manager Mick McCormack told councillors at the monthly meeting that he has been speaking with Chamber CEO Fiona Lewis and Chamber President Sean Reidy about what steps can be taken ahead of the reopening of retail outlets and cafes in three weeks on June 8 subject to the health threat being contained.
Mr McCormack said supports and initiatives will be needed to get the town and its businesses – along with villages within the district – back up and running after a three-month hiatus.
He said the findings from the Chamber’s Reviving Wexford survey will be poured over, adding that rates have been waived for all businesses affected by Covid-19 for three months from March 27.
He said tourism is a key driver of the local economy, adding that he has been liaising with management at tourism attractions to see what supports they can be offered by the council.
Cllr Pat Barden appealed to council management not to try and recoup any money from businesses who have benefited from the three month rates waiver at the end of the year or early next year. He said: ‘A lot of these businesses are completely on their knees at the moment and the last thing they need when they are trying to reopen if to be hit with a rates bill at the end of the year or early next year.’
Cathaoirleach Cllr John Fleming said rates will be a huge issue, adding that incentives to get businesses back open are needed.
‘It’s a serious time with serious issues. They will need help to get them back up on their knees.’
Mr McCormack said central government have said they won’t be recouping lost revenue on rates from businesses at any time.
Cllr Michael Sheehan suggested that the council write to the County Wexford Chamber of Commerce to develop a shop local campaign. We have to do whatever we can to promote as the premier body (for the area) to encourage people to spend money in the town and put money into the derelict buildings to ensure that whatever money is going around the town stays local.’