Local shoppers urged to support 'Small Business Saturday' this weekend

Local TD Denis Naughten has urged people to support their local town by shopping locally and supporting local jobs this Saturday, December 5.

Billed as 'Small Business Sarurday', the day is designed to convey the message that, by shopping locally, people support local jobs and businesses.

“The Christmas season is a vital period for local businesses and next Saturday - Small Business Saturday - can play a major role in supporting jobs and businesses and ensuring that our local towns thrive throughout the year,” said Denis Naughten.

“The retail sector in Ireland employs 280,000 people and is the largest sector in the local economy throughout Ireland and every €1 spent in a small local store is worth €4 to that local economy in terms of supported employment and giving that business the opportunity to continue to operate year round.

“To support this initiative I pressed Government to bring forward its plans to reduce bank charges for small electronic payments from 9th December, but was informed by Minister Noonan that this date had been agreed at EU level. I am disappointed this measure is being delayed as it is taking money out of people’s pockets and an extra €2.8m out of retailers’ pockets, which will impact on jobs in every town in Ireland

“Had the EU Commission been more conscious of the needs of local shops, and introduced this measure in advance of the start of Christmas retail season this would mean an additional boost of approximately €2.8 million in savings to retailers across this country, many of whom are struggling to keep their doors open,” stated the Independent TD.

“Just a small change in spending by consumers in their local town can have a hugely positive impact, and all of our towns can facilitate people doing all of their Christmas shopping locally.

“Where there is a particular business lacking in a town, please let your local Councillor know because a rates incentive scheme has been introduced to attract new businesses into a town where that service is not available at present,” Deputy Naughten concluded.