SFA urges quick implementation of jobs plan

The Small Firms Association has today welcomed the Action Plan for Jobs announced today.

"This plan recognises the key role that small firms play in the economy by focusing on many key initiatives to assist start ups and indigenous business to grow,” said SFA chair Ian Martin.

"The plan addresses the area of business costs which continue to place huge pressures on the ability of small businesses to invest, develop, expand and create new jobs, however we need to ensure that the commitments are speedily progressed and delivered."

Martin welcomed the funding commitment for mentoring and management development in small firms, stating: “For companies that are expanding, it is vital that the owner-managers have the necessary skills required.

"This investment is essential to support management development, which will have a real return for the economy, in improving business performance in areas such as leadership and communications. Better management businesses mean more jobs."

Commenting on the establishment of the a new Micro-Enterprise and Small Business Unit in Enterprise Ireland, Martin said that this should assist all small businesses who wish to develop their business overseas.

"As a small, open economy, we must export 85% of everything we produce and it is hoped that this unit will assist small firms to access new markets and develop and launch new products.”

However, Martin was critical of the announcement that the Loan Guarantee Scheme is not being introduced until Q2, saying: “The delays in introducing this scheme is placing many small firms under financial pressure and placing further jobs at risk."

Martin concluded: "For this action plan to deliver jobs, it is vital that all proposals are assigned responsibility to ensure they are acted upon and delivered, only then will we move in the direction of restoring business and consumer confidence and creating economic and job growth.”