Mayo TD gives clear insight to his new political challenges

A Mayo TD has spoken about the new challenges facing him as Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for small businesses and retail and as Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with special responsibility for the circular economy.

Deputy Alan Dillon outlined: "I am deeply committed to ensuring its successful delivery, with a particular focus on the tremendous opportunities it will bring to my county, Mayo.

"As we move forward, the health and vibrancy of the Irish economy is central to our efforts.

"Small businesses lie at the heart of the economy's success.

"As more than 99% of businesses employ fewer than 50 people, SMEs account for more than 40% of employment in our economy.

"These businesses are the lifeblood of our towns, villages and rural communities.

"From local retailers to family run enterprises, the programme for government aims to provide targeted support to businesses of all sizes to ensure they continue to thrive.

"As Minister of State with responsibility for small businesses and retail, my primary focus will be to ensure small businesses, especially those in rural areas of counties such as Mayo, are supported in every way possible.

"Alongside my colleagues, the Minister, Deputy Peter Burke, and the Minister of State, Deputy Niamh Smyth, I will work diligently over the next five years to implement measures that enhance the competitiveness and productivity of Irish businesses with a particular focus on SMEs.

"One of the initiatives in this regard will be the strengthening of the supports provided by Enterprise Ireland, which will continue to assist Irish companies to scale globally.

"Furthermore, local enterprise offices which are crucial to the growth of small businesses, will receive additional resources to support local entrepreneurs and better assist small indigenous exporters.

"This will ensure businesses have the tools and expertise they need to expand and succeed.

"In addition, I will highlight the increased cost of business scheme and the power up grant, which both received 750,000 applications from SMEs in 2024.

"These initiatives have been vital in helping businesses to manage rising operational costs and invest in growth opportunities.

"I am deeply committed to seeing these supports expanded and made more accessible to businesses.

"On regulation, my department also recognises the importance of thinking small first.

"My officials have developed an SME test that requires policymakers to consider the impact major policy initiatives would have on SMEs.

"We will further roll out the use of the SME test across all measures that affect SMEs.

"We will also take the opportunity to look back and identify regulations that are now redundant in order to reduce unnecessary red tape.

"Regional growth is a key focus of the programme for government, that is ensuring that our towns, villages and rural areas thrive.

"This is especially important to me because County Mayo has much potential for the development of various sectors.

"To this end, the government is committed to publishing and resourcing new regional enterprise plans which will be based on in-depth reviews and tailored to meet the specific needs of regions such as the north west.

"We will also reform the smart regions enterprise innovation scheme to ensure that the €145 million available will help to build local enterprise infrastructure, foster innovation and support early stage research.

"I am excited to see the potential these plans have to benefit, in particular, the areas of green energy, tourism and agri-business which are all vital sectors.

"As the largest private sector employer, the retail sector also plays an essential role in the economy and I am especially focused on supporting it.

"Retail businesses, including small local shops and large stores, are critical to the vibrancy of our communities.

"The programme for government places a strong emphasis on digitalisation and sustainability in the retail sector.

"I am committed to ensuring that retail businesses in County Mayo have the resources to transition to the digital economy to improve their competitiveness and reach new customers.

"Through continued engagement with the retail forum, we will work alongside retail stakeholders to address challenges and create a sustainable, forward-thinking retail environment.

"The programme for government also sets out a commitment to a circular economy and promoting sustainable practices that extend the lives of products, reduce waste and create new business opportunities.

"This vision will benefit businesses by providing a platform for innovation in such areas as repair, reuse and eco-design.

"Supporting the transition to a circular economy will not only help us to meet EU targets for waste reduction and recycling, it will also create new opportunities for businesses that embrace sustainable practices.

"The programme for government offers an exciting vision for Ireland's future and places a strong emphasis on the growth and success of small businesses and communities.

"For rural counties such as Mayo, this means more support for local businesses, better access to resources for innovation and development and a clear path towards sustainable and balanced regional growth.

"I am truly committed to delivering these ambitions so that small businesses flourish and communities grow and prosper."