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Minister’s visit is welcome boost

Thursday, 19 January 2012

MP Sammy Wilson pictured talking to members of the Ballyclare Chamber of Trade on Friday during his visit to Ballyclare. GC0327

FINANCE Minister Sammy Wilson saw first hand last week the struggles facing local traders.
Mr Wilson met with the Ballyclare Chamber of Trade during a visit to the town last Friday, January 13.
After meeting with Chamber of Trade representatives, Mr Wilson undertook a walk-about through the town to meet local traders.
“I welcome the opportunity to hear the views of Ballyclare traders and the concerns that many have, both here and in other towns across Northern Ireland," said The Minister.
“While the downturn has impacted on all sectors, some have fared better than others.
“ I know that small businesses in particular are struggling."
Visiting a number of the independent businesses in the town, the Minister could see for himself the adverse impact that the economic downturn has had.
The Minister concluded: "Although I cannot work miracles and immunise any sector of the business community from the effects of this prolonged recession, I do want to ensure that more support is targeted towards small businesses in town centres like Ballyclare which have not fared as well during the downturn."
Mr Wilson also revealed local traders could benefit from the new rates proposals, which will see major changes to commercial rates.
In December the Executive agreed to the expansion of the small business rate relief scheme, to be funded from a large retail levy. This will provide tangible benefits to small businesses, who have been adversely affected by the downturn and continue to struggle during these difficult economic times.
Mr Wilson added: "The policy changes aim to rebalance the rating system for a finite period during the economic downturn, helping to create the right conditions for recovery, and broadly double the amount of rate relief provided to small businesses.
“In 2012/13 up to 70 businesses in Ballyclare could benefit from the expanded small business rate relief scheme, roughly doubling the total number that will receive help.
“The average award for those businesses could be in the region of £850 per year.
“This is a positive step and the Executive will be moving to secure implementation of the changes to the commercial rating system by April 1."

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