The Kilkenny Chamber Shopping Voucher Scheme was officially launched by Minister of State for Trade & Commerce John McGuinness in the sumptuous Billiard Room, Kilkenny Castle, Thursday December 4, 2008.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State McGuinness commented on the ongoing cross-border trade debate saying “there are many factors associated with the shift of people crossing the border to shop this Christmas. What we need to highlight to people is that when we include the cost of travel and time it takes, it makes the trip far less cost-effective than shopping locally. The perception of cost savings is only that, the reality is that there aren’t any savings to be made. We all need to engage with local business because local jobs are at risk.”
He complimented the Chamber for introducing the scheme and said that more chambers should follow Kilkenny Chambers’ lead in supporting local business in a very targeted and tangible way.
“This is the type of initiative that we need and the chamber is to be commended on introducing the scheme at such a vital time in our local economy. I encourage business and the public to support the scheme as together we can help to maintain Kilkenny’s position as a strong retail centre.”
The minister also congratulated local government on freezing rates for business in 2009 and advised that it is now that local government needs to play an even bigger role in contributing to lowering business costs.
He added that the local authority should also freeze planning charges. “Kilkenny County Council is to the fore in the war against increases in business charges. They need to continue to work with the Chamber to reduce charges to business.”
Donal Higgins, Chamber president commented, “2008 has been a very tough year for businesses in Ireland and it is no different in Kilkenny. It is important that we fight for our own survival and that we deal with those we know and trust.”
