Shoppers should put local businesses first in 2011

Date: 29/12/2010
Posted by: Darragh

Local businesses deserve our support over the New Year and throughout 2011.

The past year has been extraordinarily difficult for Irish businesses. Retailers have faced trading conditions not seen for many years and are hoping that 2011 will be a much better year. Despite the challenges facing the country there are very positive economic indicators and I know many local retailers are hoping for a busy time with New Year sales. With that in mind I believe it is extremely important that people take time to support businesses in their local communities.

The unemployment rate is stabilising at the moment and I know many retailers who are hoping that they can pursue opportunities for growth and expansion in the coming year. By ensuring that we as consumers do our bit we can support them to grow to the benefit of our local communities.

The small business sector is extremely important to the national economy and it will be a significant player in the recovery that is already taking hold. Thousands of people are employed in small businesses around the country and there are many more people who have lost their jobs and with the support of state agencies are now pursuing business opportunities of their own.

The Government is working to support small businesses with employment incentives and initiatives to protect employment. By continuing to increase Ireland’s competitiveness our small businesses will once again be perfectly placed to benefit from the recovery. This will continue to be a priority area for the Government in the New Year and I hope that consumers will support these efforts and support their local businesses as well.