Delivery of the State's €6.5bn business rescue package deemed 'questionable'

County Kildare Chamber CEO Allan Shine: "We find it incredible that the Taoiseach stated that the next government may not be formed until June whilst then announcing two business measures that require legislation."

The prospect of a successful delivery of the Government’s wide-ranging €6.5bn rescue package for businesses has been branded as “questionable” by one of the country’s largest regional chamber of commerce.

The financial supports – which include a €2bn credit guarantee fund, the writing off of a proportion of commercial rates bills, and a 12-month freeze on tax payments - were broadly welcomed over the weekend by a diverse range of representative bodies including the Small Firms Association, the Irish Farmers’ Association and the Family Business Network, which represents family-run companies.