7,870 new jobs created by LEOs in 2022 – Richmond

Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) created almost 8,000 jobs last year which is a testament to the important work they do to support businesses across Ireland, Minister for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Neale Richmond has said.

Minister Richmond said: “Fine Gael is the party of employment and business, and with a record 2.5 million people at work. We are delivering where other parties only make empty promises.

“LEOs play a hugely important role in supporting small businesses across the country, from mentorship and advice to providing loans and grants, their support is invaluable.

“With 7,870 jobs created across the country in 2022 by LEO-supported businesses and a whopping 37,863 jobs supported by LEOs across Ireland, it is clear that the work being carried out by LEOs is hugely beneficial to the jobs market.

“This marks the ninth consecutive year of job growth for LEO supported businesses and a 10% increase on 2021; a huge achievement given the difficulties businesses have faced over the past few years,” Minister Richmond continued.

“Last week I visited the LEO office in Dundalk to meet some businesses they support across Louth. In 2022, the LEO office in Louth supported 913 jobs, Limerick LEO supported 1,815 and Cork supported 3,159.

“Fine Gael in Government is committed to supporting businesses through these difficult periods. Through LEO supports and the TBESS scheme, help is available for those who need it.

“The Trading Online Voucher Scheme will help businesses move online and the Green for Micro programme advises businesses on the first steps towards sustainability, with mentorship programmes also available – there are supports for all small businesses available through the LEO network.

“We in Fine Gael have a proven track record of creating jobs, supporting business, growing the economy, and increasing incomes. Other parties who claim to represent the people of Ireland would bring about fewer jobs, less businesses, and lower incomes.

“Businesses can trust Fine Gael to keep the economy strong and support them through any crisis,” Minister Richmond concluded.