Statement

WEIR BACKS SMALL BUSINESSES AT FSB EVENT 

Posted on: April 30, 2009

Speaking after attending the recent Federation of Small Businesses European Hustings Event (see attached photograph) Cllr Weir said 

“Small businesses represent the backbone of the economy of Northern Ireland. They delivered work and economic prosperity throughout the most difficult and darkest days of the Troubles, and at this time of global recession, it is vital that public representatives stand foresquare behind them, and provide whatever assistance they can to help them withstand the economic storm. That is why I feel that events such as the Federation of Small Businesses European hustings are vital in focusing the agenda at the practical issues and problems facing our business community.  

The DUP have striven to match rhetoric with results. It was at our insistence that the economy has been placed at the heart of the Programme for Government, even before the current recession. We have ensured that the Regional Business Rate has been kept at a zero level in terms of increase, and that previous Government policy of increasing Manufacturing Rates has been halted. Recently, the Finance Minister has announced that he will be introducing a Small Business Rates Relief Scheme, which will benefit 16000 businesses in the Province. We cannot shelter Northern Ireland from the downturn in the global economy, and we will not succeed in preserving every business. These are tough times, but the practical steps that we are taking, show at least that we are prepared to step up to the mark, and take practical steps to back up business.”