SMALL businesses in West Cork need more support to ensure their survival, a Labor Party local election candidate has warned.
Labor Party candidate for Skibbereen LEA Evie Nevin spoke as a Clonakilty bakery announced plans to close, blaming high costs. O’Regan Street’s Humble Pie announced her decision last week.
“Due to the constant increase in our utilities, packaging and products, we feel it is no longer feasible to keep our small store open,” the popular bakery said in a social media post.
Owner Samantha Duffy will continue to run the business online, but will close the city premises.
Labor’s Evie Nevin has called for a review of Cork County Council’s rates system and a forum for small and medium-sized businesses following another worrying business closure.
“We are aware that many small, medium and micro businesses in West Cork are facing difficulties,” Ms Nevin said. ‘To address these concerns, West Cork Labor is carrying out a comprehensive survey of all small businesses in Clonakilty, Dunmanway, Skibbereen and surrounding towns in the local electoral area. The goal is to identify the most significant impacts on local businesses and explore immediate and viable solutions.’
Nevin said the business rates system needs to be reviewed and called nationally for the 1% training levy to be suspended.
“At the local level, we advocate for the immediate establishment of forums at the municipal council and district level,” Nevin added. ‘The aim is to consult with SMEs on how to immediately address their needs ahead of the next tourist season.
‘This is about more than just the survival of small businesses. It’s about recognizing their importance to local economies and communities, the dignity of work and the value of work that contributes to our society.’