UPDATE FOR BUSINESS IMPACTED BY FLOODING
02 November 2023
Our heart goes out to every business that has been impacted by the terrible flooding over the past few days. Since day one, Hospitality Ulster has been engaging with the Department of Finance to seek a funding package to support our members businesses, and continue to make our case directly with the Permanent Secretary of the Department Neil Gibson.
We are all aware of the funding crisis and lack of Government in Northern Ireland, but this must not be used as an excuse to refuse help businesses in crisis due to a unique situation not of their making.
Rest assured; we will do everything in our power to secure a funding package. But whilst we await a response from the Department, there are a few things to keep in mind:
HU LEGAL HELPLINE
HU members are also reminded to make full use of the HU members legal helpline to assist with any issues arising from insurance claims or entitlement.
HARDSHIP RATE RELIEF
Businesses impacted by flooding may be eligible to apply for Hardship Rate Relief; this is an application-based scheme intended to help support businesses in their recovery from a temporary crisis as a result of an exceptional circumstance.
Any rate relief provided through this scheme is retrospective and applications can be made up until 31st March 2024.
OUTSTANDING BUSINESS RATES
Land & Property Services (LPS) appreciates ratepayers affected by the recent flooding may now be facing financial challenges due to its impact and are encouraging them to contact LPS to discuss payment options which may help alleviate immediate financial concerns.
Should a business impacted by flooding be in arrears and have recently received a summons for legal proceedings, LPS urges them to make contact as soon as possible to discuss payment options that may avoid legal recovery action being taken at this time.