Independent TD for Donegal Thomas Pringle has suggested that the Government should consider lifting taxes from Pandemic Unemployment Payments in the run-up to Christmas to keep more money in the local economy.
Deputy Pringle said there is case to be made for lifting the tax liability now, as the Finance Bill is finalised for next week.
“This has been a difficult year for people and businesses in Donegal and across the country. We’re coming up to the time of year that means so much for a lot of businesses, and due to coronavirus restrictions, many of these businesses have had to close their doors to the public,” Deputy Pringle said.
“Now is exactly the time that the Government should be trying to keep as much money in the local economy as possible. Many businesses in Donegal and elsewhere are still trading online during lockdown, and the public can support them by shopping local.”
Deputy Pringle said local businesses can provide many of the same services as multinational giants like Amazon, while also saving jobs in local communities.
“When people shop local, they are supporting their neighbours, local jobs and local communities. You can’t say that about money spent with Amazon,” he said.
Deputy Pringle added the weekend of November 6th to 8th is #BuyDonegalWeekend, an initiative of Donegal County Council, in collaboration with businesses across the county, to highlight the range of Donegal products available.
Deputy Pringle said: “The Letterkenny Chamber has been getting out the message, Shop Local. Stay Local, to encourage people to shop locally online during lockdown. I would encourage people to visit the websites and social media accounts of your local businesses to see how you can shop with them online during lockdown.”
There is more information on the #BuyDonegalWeekend online at https://buydonegal.ie.
Deputy Pringle said: “Local organisations and authorities are working to promote and support local businesses. The Government could support these efforts by lifting taxes on Covid payments and leaving people with more to spend locally in the run-up to Christmas.”
