One third of SMEs will hire in 2015

Fine Gael’s leader in the European Parliament has said Ireland must try to ensure that its small businesses face fewer regulatory hurdles than in any other EU member state.

Speaking yesterday, after attending a high-level meeting of SME representatives from Ireland and European policymakers in Brussels, Sean Kelly said Fine Gael and its colleagues in the European People’s Party are “committed to reducing red tape and fostering a competitive business environment”.

At the meeting, Mr Kelly heard directly from Patricia Callan — head of the Ibec-affiliated Small Firms’ Association — that 30% of all SMEs intend to expand and create employment opportunities at home during 2015.