FG unveils plans for small business

Fine Gael has said that small businesses could save up to €50,000 per year under new proposals for sector relief that the party…

Fine Gael has said that small businesses could save up to €50,000 per year under new proposals for sector relief that the party unveiled today.

The party's 18-point rescue plan to support small businesses includes measures to deal with rent increases and a freeze on Government charges.

It is also proposing to reverse the VAT increase introduced by the Government last year and to abolish the €10 travel tax.

Under the party's proposals, Fine Gael would offer employers a PRSI exemption for new staff recruited or alternatively a 6,000 euro wage subsidy per employee over the same period. It is also proposed reductions in local authority rates, a freeze on Government charges and an end to "upward only" rent reviews.