Business Supports
Dail Éireann — 2026-04-28
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Tony McCormack (FF), Offaly

I welcome the supports that are in place and acknowledge the strong work being done for small and medium-sized enterprises by local enterprise offices, LEOs, and Enterprise Ireland in supporting businesses across the country. However, we have to be honest about the reality facing the retail sector. Over the last 12 months in particular, retailers have been hit from every angle. Rising energy costs, increases in the minimum wage and now the additional burden of auto-enrolment are all adding to the pressure on businesses already operating on very tight margins.
I have raised this issue with the Minister of State previously on the floor of this House, and while the supports are appreciated, there is a clear sense across the sector that more needs to be done. I say this not just as a public representative but on a personal level. I started my first retail business at the age of 21. I was born into the retail business sector through a family shop at home. I know what it feels like to open the doors every morning wondering if enough will be made to cover the costs. I understand the responsibility that comes from employing people, the weight of knowing that others rely on you for their livelihood. I have lived it. Right now, many retailers feel that they are not being heard. What additional targeted measures are now being considered to support the retail sector in the face of rising costs, including energy, labour and auto-enrolment obligations, so that viable businesses can survive?

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-04-28/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:52+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-04-28