Irish Government establishes dedicated Small Business Unit

The Irish Government has announced the establishment of a dedicated Small Business Unit, based in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

According to Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, small businesses in Ireland are a core priority for his department.

“The Programme for Government sets out clearly how the needs of small businesses must have a dedicated focus and are recognised and acknowledged across Government,” he said.

“The Small Business Unit will focus on rigorously implementing the SME Test, to ensure the perspectives of small businesses are considered across Government before new legislation or regulation is introduced. 

“It will oversee the simplification of information and access to grants and supports for businesses though the National Enterprise Hub, and it will also ensure the local enterprise offices are properly resourced to help small businesses.

“Small businesses employ two-thirds of our population and keep our local communities and economies vibrant and strong. The Government must recognise this and ensure we are providing the support that SMEs need to run their businesses successfully, and continue to provide vital employment and economic benefit across the country.” 

SMEs, including those within the hair and beauty sector, account for for 99.8% of all enterprises and 69.2% of people employed, according to the most recent CSO statistics on these businesses in Ireland.