More than £27 million has been paid to large-scale businesses, including retailers, in Northern Ireland through Covid-19 grant support, the country’s finance minister has said.
Conor Murphy said 552 businesses with a net annual value in excess of £51,000 had benefitted from £50,000 payments through the business grant scheme run by his department.
Those businesses were also beneficiaries of the 12-month rate bill holiday that the Executive introduced in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Retailers in Northern Ireland were among the beneficiaries of the Covid-19 support grants.
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“This scheme closed for applications just over a month ago and so far Land & Property Services has paid out over £27 million to businesses across all council areas,” Murphy said.
“A wide range of businesses will benefit including retail stores, engineering companies, caravan parks and garden centres.
“It’s great to have the opportunity to visit businesses which have received the £50,000 grant and to hear the positive difference this funding will make.
“These larger businesses are a vital part of our economy, employing many people locally.
“I was determined to ensure financial assistance was provided to these businesses which have been unable to access support up until now.”
with PA Wires
