Budget 2014 will help support Meath’s recovery – Butler

Fine Gael Meath West TD, Ray Butler, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the pro-business measures contained in the 2014 Budget, saying the €500 million jobs stimulus package will help to support Meath’s economic recovery. Deputy Butler also noted that Chambers Ireland has given a very positive response to the Budget.

“Through the introduction of 25 separate measures that support job creation as part of a €500 million pro-jobs package in this year’s Budget, we can build on the progress being made in encouraging investment in Ireland and tackling our unemployment problem. The unemployment rate has fallen for each of the last 15 months and 3,000 additional jobs are now being created every month. I am confident that Budget 2014 will help to further boost job creation.

“There are a number of specific measures in the Budget which will give a shot in the arm to the construction industry and the tourism trade. The Home Renovation Scheme is a particularly positive initiative, which will allow homeowners to claim back VAT on improvements carried out on their homes. This will not only provide an incentive for people thinking about upgrading their homes, it will also provide an economic boost to registered tradesmen and contractors.

“The retention of the 9% VAT rate and the scrapping of the airline tax are hugely welcome for the tourism sector, which has enjoyed a surge in visitor numbers over the last two years. The lower VAT rate was originally introduced as a temporary measure, but Minister Noonan has clearly listened to those involved in the industry, and has taken the very pragmatic decision to maintain the low rate. I am sure this will come as a relief to businesspeople involved in tourism across Meath.

“Exiting the bailout is also key to sending a signal to the world that Ireland is an attractive location for business. The budget adjustment of €2.5 billion will ensure that Ireland exceeds our deficit target of 5.1%, as set down by the Troika, and delivers a deficit of 4.8%. We need to maintain the progress we have achieved so far, so that people have renewed economic confidence which will allow them to spend in the domestic economy.

“I note that Chambers Ireland has warmly welcomed the Budget, saying its members across Ireland are now looking forward with confidence to a positive Christmas period. I share this sentiment and look forward to building on our economy recovery and exiting the bailout in two months’ time.”

ENDS