Small businesses in Waterford not getting enough 'real' support

Waterford TD and Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Development, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Conor D. McGuinness, has said small businesses across County Waterford are being left behind by Government inaction on rising costs, access to credit, and the lack of a real plan for regional economic growth.

Deputy McGuinness made the comments following a meeting with Jonathan McDade of the Small Firms Association, which is national representative body for small businesses.

Commenting on the matter to Waterford News & Star, Deputy McGuinness said small businesses are the lifeblood of every community.

"Across Waterford – from the city centre to the Comeraghs, from the Copper Coast to Portlaw and Lismore – small businesses are keeping our towns and communities going. They are providing local jobs, delivering vital services, and helping to keep money in the local economy,” he said.

However, he said such businesses are under pressure and he also said housing is an issue, commenting: "These businesses are under pressure. Insurance costs, rising interest rates, unfair commercial rates and the continuing lack of access to affordable housing for workers are all taking their toll."

"The cost of doing business has soared and Government response has been weak and piecemeal," said Deputy McGuinness.

He said his discussion with the Small Firms Association highlighted the urgent need for real reform and targeted support for small businesses in rural and regional areas like Waterford.

“Sinn Féin is clear: we need a plan for regional development that delivers real investment and fair treatment for small firms," he said.

"That means reforming commercial rates, cutting red tape, making credit more accessible, and introducing a fair employer PRSI rebate," he added. However, he also said it means backing rural and community-based businesses along with improving access to training and enterprise supports, and opening up public procurement to local SMEs.

Deputy McGuinness said his meeting with Mr McDade was part of ongoing engagement with the business community in Waterford.

“I’ve been meeting directly with business owners, retailers, market traders, local producers, and employers across the county," he said.

"Their message is consistent: they need practical support, not more reports or empty promises," he added.

"A strong Waterford economy depends on strong small businesses and it’s time Government started acting like it."