Chamber President says this Tipperary town is confronted with 'unprecedented hurdles'
The Economic Pulse of Cashel is confronted with unprecedented hurdles, according to Martin Lynch, the President of the Cashel Chamber of Commerce
Mr Lynch has expressed serious apprehensions about the prevailing condition of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Cashel, and throughout Ireland.
SMEs, being the economic pulse of Irish society, hold a crucial position in the economy and local communities, he said.
Yet, Mr Lynch feels that the current Government has neglected this vital sector, failing to extend sufficient support in the recent budget plans.
“The hospitality industry in Cashel, a town celebrated for its rich heritage and lively culture, is particularly under pressure. The VAT rate increase from 9% to 13.5% in August 2023 has imposed an extra burden on an already strained industry. This decision has had a significant effect, making it increasingly challenging for businesses in this sector to stay afloat,” he said.
Despite the Government’s introduction of measures such as the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme and the Ukraine Enterprise Crisis Scheme, Mr Lynch feels these initiatives have not done enough to counterbalance the difficulties faced by SMEs.
The rise in employers’ PRSI, the launch of Pension Autoenrollment, and the pledge to a living wage by 2026 had further strained these businesses financially, he said.
While Mr Lynch, on behalf of Cashel Chamber of Commerce members, fully recognises the Government’s attempts to enhance workers’ conditions, he emphasised the need to balance these initiatives with the requirements of SMEs.
He reminded Government that a flourishing SME sector was indispensable for a robust economy and a dynamic society.
Consequently, he implored the Government to reassess its strategy and provide the necessary backing to ensure the survival and expansion of SMEs in Ireland.
Mr Lynch said that the impact of these issues was already visible in the neighbouring towns of Tipperary Town and Clonmel, where, along with recent closures in the hospitality and restaurant sector, other small SMEs such as coffee shops and small to medium independent retailers had closed. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for government intervention.
In conclusion, Mr. Lynch stated, “The Government’s disregard for SMEs is a serious concern for the members of Cashel Chamber of Commerce who believe immediate action is required to rectify this situation.
"Supporting SMEs is not just about financial aid. It’s about fostering an environment conducive to business growth. It’s about understanding the unique challenges SMEs face and addressing them through considerate and effective policies. It’s about ensuring that our economy’s backbone, the SME sector, is not merely surviving but thriving.
"Therefore, as President and, on behalf of the Cashel Chamber of Commerce, I urge the government to take immediate steps to support SMEs and ensure a balanced and prosperous future for all."