Small businesses in Waterford need real support – McGuinness

Waterford TD and Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Development, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness, has said that small businesses across the county are being left behind by government inaction on rising costs, access to credit, and the lack of a real plan for regional economic growth.

Deputy McGuinness made the comments following a meeting with Jonathan McDade of the Small Firms Association, the national representative body for small businesses. 

“Across Waterford – from the city centre to the Comeraghs, from the Copper Coast to Portlaw, to Tallow and many more – small businesses are keeping our towns and communities going. They are providing local jobs, delivering vital services, and helping to keep money in the local economy,” he said.

“But these businesses are under pressure. Insurance costs, rising interest rates, unfair commercial rates and the continuing lack of access to affordable housing for workers are all taking their toll. The cost of doing business has soared – and Government response has been weak and piecemeal.”

Deputy McGuinness said the discussion with the Small Firms Association highlighted the urgent need for real reform and targeted support for small businesses in rural and regional areas like Waterford.

“Sinn Féin is clear: we need a plan for regional development that delivers real investment and fair treatment for small firms. That means reforming commercial rates, cutting red tape, making credit more accessible, and introducing a fair employer PRSI rebate.

“It also means backing rural and community-based businesses, improving access to training and enterprise supports, and opening up public procurement to local SMEs.”

He added that the meeting is part of ongoing engagement with the business community in Waterford.

“I’ve been meeting directly with business owners, retailers, market traders, local producers, and employers across the county. Their message is consistent: they need practical support, not more reports or empty promises. A strong Waterford economy depends on strong small businesses – and it’s time Government started acting like it.”