Flood damages scheme a major relief for local businesses says Hazzard
South Down Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has welcomed the announcement of a scheme to support businesses damaged by recent flooding.
Speaking after Economy Minister Conor Murphy announced that the scheme will open for applications next week, the South Down MP said: “The announcement of this scheme will be a huge relief for local businesses whose premises were devastated by flooding just weeks before Christmas.
“Applications will open next week through local councils and eligible businesses will be able to avail of grants worth up to £100,000 to help with damages from flooding.
“I am pleased that Economy Minister Conor Murphy has also approved hardship schemes to support premises who were unable to access the previous £7,500 grants last year.
“Our small and family-run businesses have been under severe pressure because of the damage done by flooding and this scheme will enable them to restore their premises and to continue to open their doors to the community.
“It is clear the Economy Minister has listened to the voices of local businesses and acted quickly to ensure they have access to proper funding and support after what has been a very challenging time.”
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Murphy announces details of flood support programme for businesses
Economy Minister Conor Murphy has provided details of a support package for businesses affected by recent flooding.
The Enhanced Flood Support Scheme will provide further support to businesses that were directly flooded following the severe weather in late October and early November.
The scheme will be delivered by district councils and will open for applications next week.
The support is in addition to the £7,500 grants and rates relief that has been provided to date to affected businesses.
The Minister also announced two hardship schemes to provide support for businesses and some other non-domestic premises that were impacted by the flooding but were not eligible for the previous £7,500 payment or the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme.
These schemes are expected to open within the next two weeks.
Highlighting the support available, the Minister said: “I know that this has been a difficult and very worrying time for businesses that have been affected by flooding.
“Many are frustrated that the support hasn’t been made available sooner. I am pleased, therefore, to announce that the councils will begin to take in applications to an Enhanced Flood Support Scheme next week.
“This will provide up to £100,000 to flooded small and medium sized businesses in Newry, Downpatrick, Portadown and other affected areas to cover costs associated with the refitting of the flooded premises and the replacement of damaged equipment and stock.”
The Minister added: “I have also approved two new hardship schemes that will provide support to others that were affected by the flooding but not eligible for the other supports.
“This includes, for example, support for occupants of non-domestic premises that were flooded but were not covered by the £7,500 scheme and also support for businesses that were not flooded but were unable to access their premises and hence unable to trade.”
The Minister concluded: “Small and medium sized businesses are the lifeblood of our local town centres.
“I am pleased to be able to announce this support package, which takes account of the feedback I have been getting from businesses and elected representatives about what is needed on the ground.
“I urge any traders that believe they are eligible to check the criteria next week and submit an application.”
Full details about the scheme, including the eligibility criteria and how to apply, will be released early next week.
