Chris Bishop

National List MP based in Hutt South

Media statement

28 November 2016

Bishop welcomes support package for quake-affected Hutt Valley businesses

Chris Bishop today welcomed the Government’s extension of its employee support subsidy to quake-affected businesses to the Hutt Valley.

“Since the announcement that part of Queensgate would be demolished, I’ve been talking to affected businesses and staff, both within the Queensgate building and the immediate surrounds. It’s clear that this package is necessary and I’m really pleased the government has acted,” says Mr Bishop.

“This is great news for the Hutt Valley.”

“I’m expecting this to help out a lot of businesses in and around Queensgate,” Mr Bishop says.

The package will only apply to businesses such as retail and hospitality which have been prevented from operating and will be unable to do so for some time, and who don’t have business continuity insurance.

“Some businesses can operate from other branches in the same chain, or can move into a vacant store nearby – a Queensgate store moving to a pop-up store on High Street, for example. This subsidy is for those who physically can’t move their fittings or operate their business from anywhere else,” says Mr Bishop.

The assistance package will be available to businesses that cannot operate due to cordons put in place or building damage as a result of the November 14 earthquake, and are unable to move and operate anywhere else.

The support subsidy will be at the same rate as for businesses in other areas. It will cover up to eight weeks at a rate of:

· $500 gross per week for a full time employee ($4,000 per person);

· $300 gross per week for a part time employee ($2,400 per person);

· It will not be subject to GST (i.e. so employees get a higher net subsidy); and it will apply only for the period from when the company is prevented from operating i.e. until the cordon is lifted.

The Government has set aside $7.5 million for the business support package last week. Joint Ministers will review the scheme before Christmas once more information is available. Further funds are available if required.

Anyone requiring information and support should call the Government Helpline on 0800 779 997.

More information is available here.

ENDS

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