News & Events

Donegal business will receive additional help

€2m extra grant aid for businesses affected by restrictions in Donegal

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD today (September 24) announced that Donegal businesses affected by the decision to move to Phase 3 will receive additional government funding.  

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD said:

“Today’s decision will come as a blow to the business owners of Donegal, their families and their staff, and especially for rural pubs which have only just opened the doors. I know this will feel like another set back after what has been a really tough year. This decision has been taken to halt the spread of the virus and protect our most vulnerable. I believe it will also be better for business in the long run as it will limit the damage of the virus on our communities.”

Actions today include:

Topped up Restart Grant Plus

Donegal businesses impacted by 25% or more fall in turnover will now be entitled to a 30% top-up, bringing the new minimum for affected counties to €5,200 and the new maximum to €32,500. Those that applied and received a grant previously, can receive the top up of 30%.

Increased Agency Support

Applications from Donegal will be prioritised for the wide range of existing loan and voucher schemes available to assist businesses affected by Covid-19 through the July Jobs Stimulus and other Government initiatives. This includes the LEO Trading On-Line Vouchers, MicroFinance Ireland Covid-19 Loan Fund and access to liquidity and investment finance schemes.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD said:

 “As Minister for Enterprise, I am deeply aware of the profound impact these necessary restrictions are having on business. This additional funding will help Donegal businesses get through the next few weeks and prepare for re-opening after. We must all now double down on our efforts to stop the spread of the virus.”

Notes to Editors

More information on the business supports 

There is an existing package in place to help businesses nationally re-open and stay open, through the July Stimulus. The government are:

Extending the wage subsidy scheme to the end of March 2021, supporting viable businesses and jobs, including new hires

  • Giving companies extra assistance to reopen and stay open through an enhanced Restart grant available to more firms
  • Providing more and cheaper loan finance through Microfinance Ireland and the Credit Guarantee Scheme
  • Providing funding to help businesses and get ready for Brexit
  • Exploiting opportunities in areas like Life Sciences and investing in decarbonisation and digitalisation
  • Putting in place a six month reduction in the VAT, going down from 23% to 21%
  • Providing more funding for the IDA to promote Ireland as a place for foreign direct investment
  • Supporting small businesses (under 10 employees), who are ineligible for other grants through the Micro-Enterprise Assistance Fund