Cabinet to discuss assistance for businesses affected by Waterford fire

Around 40 businesses were severely damaged following the fire.

LAST UPDATE | 12 May

SUPPORTS FOR BUSINESSES impacted by a fire in Waterford are to be discussed by Cabinet today.

The fire broke out at a commercial premises at the old Jute Factory on Tycor Avenue at around 6.30pm on Saturday evening and was brought under control on Sunday.

Asbestos-containing material was identified in the fire-damaged structure and debris from the fire.

Around 40 businesses were severely damaged following the fire.

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke is bringing a memo to Cabinet today outlining the work underway with the local authority, the Department of Social Protection and the HSE to assess the damage and see what supports are needed.

Recognising that the site is a key zone of employment in Waterford City and a critical hub of enterprise, it is understood that all efforts will be made to appraise the needs of local businesses.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said yesterday that the fire has left “a lot of damage” to the area, calling it an “exceptional impact fire”.

The aim now is to “protect jobs” and “project services”, said the Taoiseach, who added that some services for those with disabilities have also been impacted by the fire.

State agencies such as Enterprise Ireland will be asked to assess the situation, with the Taoiseach stating that insurance companies will also have a role to play.

The enterprise minister and junior minister will hold a private meeting today with business owners affected by fire damage.

Separately, Tánaiste and Finance Minister Simon Harris has a number of memos for Cabinet today, including the bill that will formally give effect to the fuel and energy measures taken by the government last month.

The bill will give full legislative effect to the taxation measures which formed part of the energy support packages announced in March and April this year, which included a reduction in diesel, petrol and green diesel, a temporary increase in the maximum rate of repayment under the Diesel Rebate Scheme, as well as the deferment of the carbon tax until 14 October 2026.