Local Enterprise Office Donegal
In light of the most recent Government advice regarding COVID-19, all training courses, workshops and events have been postponed, effectivefrom Friday 13th March 2020 until further notice. This is a precautionary measure in the interest of safeguarding public health and we apologise for any inconvenience.
During this period our offices will not be open to the public, or available for meetings. However, our local enterprise supports and services are available as usual and we welcome all enquiries by phone or email. Telephone: 074 91 60735 or Email: info@leo.donegalcoco.ie
COVID 19
Business Continuity Planning Checklist
A checklist for business continuity planning has been updated in consultation with the HSE with specific references to COVID-19. To help businesses plan preparatory actions in response to the COVID 19 outbreak, the template is available here:
Government Information & Updates
The latest Government announcement, addressing closures and daily updates is available here
LEO Supports
Local Enterprise Offices in every county will be providing Business Continuity Vouchers of €2,500 to support business continuity preparedness, innovation and productivity. This voucher will cover the costs for consultancy/mentors in areas such as finance, HR etc. To a maximum of €2,500 at no cost to the client. The Department is working on the detail of the LEO voucher announced and further detail will be released on the website and via mailchimp when received.
Cashflow
Businesses seeking cash flow support need to follow the routes available from banks and lending facilities. Cash flow support is not available via LEO
The COVID-19 Business Loan from Microfinance Ireland is a government initiative to support small businesses through the current period of uncertainty and protect job creation or sustainment in Ireland. If your business is impacted or may be impacted by COVID-19 resulting in a reduction of 15% or more in actual or projected turnover or profit, AND you are having difficulty in accessing finance from commercial lending providers, the MFI COVID-19 Business Loan may be able to help your business. To find out further information and details on how to apply, click here.
The SBCI Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme for eligible businesses will be available within the next week. Maximum loan size will be €1.5 million (first €500 thousand unsecured) and the maximum interest rate will be 4%. Applications can be made through the SBCI website at sbci.gov.ie . Eligibility criteria apply.
Revenue will assist in dealing with tax payment difficulties by agreeing to Phased Payment Arrangements in appropriate cases. Talk to the Revenue now, and if necessary, ask for an Online Phased Payment Facility:
Work Practices
Plans should be established to reduce workplace contacts, and implementation of remote working practices and teleconferencing where possible and not to travel for meetings. Work time and break times should be staggered, where possible
Income Support
The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is introducing measures to provide income support to people affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Please CLICK HERE to view reference documentation which provides Employers and Employees with information and guidance in relation to reduced working hours, temporary layoffs and illness payment.
Find an Intreo Centre:
- Contact with Intreo Service should where possible be made, via telephone. To access a link to find your local office click here
- Reduced Working:
- People who are placed on a reduced working week will be required to contact their local Intreo Centre to arrange an appointment. Information regarding the Short Time Working Support scheme can be found here. Temporary /Permanent Layoffs:
- Where possible all applications should be made online by clicking here
- Illness Benefit for COVID 19 Absences:
- Where possible all applications should be made online by clicking here
- Other Illness Payments:
- Where people do not qualify for illness benefit they can apply for basic Supplementary Allowance which will be paid at the same rate as illness benefit.
Further advice on practical steps that you can take is available by clicking here.
