TD explains how Budget 2021 delivers for Mayo
A Mayo Fine Gael TD has welcomed the announcement of Budget 2021 by highlighting some of the benefits it offers for Mayo.
Deputy Alan Dillon stated: "Budget 2021 will see the biggest annual investment ever in the history of the State, at a time when we need it most.
"It will protect the lives and livelihoods of our people, as well as meet the challenges of COVID-19 and the end of the Brexit transition period in just under three months' time.
“Budget 2021 is about safeguarding livelihoods, protecting jobs and businesses, helping the most vulnerable in uncertain times and investing now for the future well-being of our country.
"I welcome additional funding commitments for improved transport infrastructure, farming supports, more gardaí, extra teachers, SNA’s and increased investment in schools and healthcare for Mayo.
“Balanced regional development across the west of Ireland is a key priority for Government and this budget is a testament to making Mayo a better place to live and work.
"As the Fine Gael Spokesperson on Tourism and Sport, the proposed funding under the Regional Airports Programme of €21.3 million is crucial and will provide much-needed support in 2021 for Ireland West Airport Knock.
“The reduction in the VAT rate from 13.5% to 9%, commencing on November 1, will greatly benefit our restaurant, hotel and hospitality sector.
"This will be supplemented by €360 million to support walking and cycling projects nationwide representing a spend of almost €1 million per day throughout 2021 on outdoor activities and reducing reliance on motor transport, connecting communities, and health promotion.”
“The additional €210 million allocated to accelerate progress on the rollout of the National Broadband Plan will benefit all counties including Mayo.
"National Broadband Ireland is targeting 115,000 premises being passed by the new high-speed fibre network by the end of 2021 and is a significant step forward.
"It represents a significant ramp-up of activity and will start to yield major benefits for these households and businesses in Mayo once connected.
“In addition to existing interventions to support businesses in Mayo, An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe also secured the new Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) as part of Budget 2021.
“The new Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) is aimed at Mayo businesses which have either been prohibited from operating or only been able to trade at significantly reduced levels as a result of restrictions imposed on them in response to Covid-19.
“It will offer targeted, timely and temporary sector-specific support to affected businesses in Mayo generally and it will operate when Level 3 or higher of the plan for Living with Covid-19 is in operation.
“Qualifying businesses in Mayo can apply to Revenue for a cash payment for the period of restrictions.
"Payments will be calculated on the basis of 10pc of the first €1 million in turnover and 5% on further turnover up to €4 million, based on average (VAT exclusive) turnover for 2019.
“The cumulative effects of Budget 2021 will see vital investment in rural Ireland and Mayo at a time when the country is facing unprecedented challenges, but let us remember this Budget is designed to fight the invisible enemy of Covid-19.
"As well as improving facilities for people in our communities across Mayo, it will also help restore and create new jobs while also building vibrant communities.
“The government renewal of its commitment to the strategy on remote working is very welcome within this budget.
"Remote working has been an essential part of the response to the pandemic and has also been recognised as a contributor to the achievement of Ireland’s climate ambitions as a result of reduced travel.
"I am strong of the view that long-term opportunities for remote working will greatly benefit Mayo.”
* Read the Budget 2021 speeches by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Minister for Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath at the following link: