Chris Andrews (Dublin Bay South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State might clarify something. My understanding is that the charge of €125 per table will be waived. However, the cost for renting the space, which can work out between €200 and €400 per square metre, is not going to be waived. Obviously, that it is a huge expense. The waiving of the charge of €125 will going to have a huge impact. It is obviously welcome; anything is welcome. However, the bulk of the charge will be for the renting of the square metre on the footpath and that is not being to be waived. That is having a devastating effect on businesses right across the city. That needs to be waived as well if the Government is serious about helping. I cannot help but think is a bit cynical given that it is during an election year, and it is only until the end of the year. There needs to be some respite given to businesses.

One business not too far from here, Mamma Mia pizza restaurant, is a small, locally run business that adds to the local community. It is on Grattan Street, right next to Mount Street. It has been in existence for 14 years and for the past year, it has been trying to trade with tents facing it and the smell of urine constantly in the air. The Taoiseach mentioned during the week that he did not want an ad hoc approach to immigration. However, the Government's failure on immigration has damaged this family business and may close it. To make matters worse, the council is robbing it with these outdoor charges and is refusing to give it any relief whatsoever. The business has been expected to pay for outdoor seating despite the Government's failure on immigration creating a shanty town in front of this business.

Where is the common sense? Dublin City Council needs to support these businesses, not rob them. The council has shown zero flexibility. Other councils have much fairer payment plans in place. How can the Minister of State justify these charges when businesses are on their knees? The State has failed the Mamma Mia pizza restaurant and should show some support for this small family business.

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