.
Cllr Mikey Sheehy
A TRALEE councillor is calling for Kerry County Council to help retailers, bars and restaurants wherever possible over the coming weeks and months.
Fianna Fáil councillor Mikey Sheehy says the Council could introduce additional measures which would put these businesses on a more steady footing and assist them through the reopening phases.
“As retail businesses, restaurants and pubs begin to plan for reopening it’s absolutely necessary that they are supported wherever possible,” said Cllr Sheehy.
“Proposals to allow businesses to utilise pedestrian areas and outdoor spaces are very welcome but further steps are needed,” he said.
Cllr Sheehy is proposing the Council…
• Waive council fees for premises using outdoor furniture
• Explore the possibility of grants for premises that will need to adapt to new government and HSE advice and restrictions
• Expedite the planning process for businesses that need to adapt their outdoor spaces
• Expand the current restart grant scheme which has already proven to be restrictive
We have gone from a lock-down to a line-up situation. But, this is short lived if Ireland keeps the external boarders closed to international travel only.
Once businesses open they will boom again with the Irish people alone – just look at woodies and Smyths, steady trading so far!
People want to spend in shops and hotels and restaurants, they just need the opportunity.
However, If government allows in foreign tourism there is real risk of a second wave of the virus and more limitations.
The hospitality sector can survive by encouraging the holidays in the domestic market for this year and the same applies to the pubs and every other business. How many of us would like to go to places like Galway or Dublin for a break!
If business gets greedy and puts pressure on and lobbies for the government to allow outside travellers to enter the country even with limitations, there will be a second wave and the Irish people will not be able to enter a pub or holiday in Ireland to help, save and support any business!