Decision details

The purpose of this report is to seek approval to implement the Business Recovery Grant Scheme – Storm Babet 2023 (BRG), and to delegate administration and decision making under the scheme to the relevant Director in accordance with guidance issued by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
The report also seeks delegation to Director level to sign the memorandum of understanding with DBT in relation to BRG.

1)Approve implementation of the Business Recovery Grant Scheme – Storm Babet.
2)Delegate to the relevant Director, the authority to administer and determine all applications for grants under the scheme in line with DBT guidance at Appendix 1 and any further guidance issued.
3)Delegate authority to Director level to complete the Memorandum of Understanding issued by DBT to enable participation in the Business Recovery Grant Scheme – Storm Babet.

To enable officers to move forward with the implementation of the Business Recovery Grant Scheme - Storm Babet.

An alternative would be not to implement the scheme locally. However, this would be contrary to Government expectation and recommendation and would not enable financial support to those businesses impacted by Storm Babet. Completion of the memorandum of understanding with DBT is required to access the BRG scheme.
Administration and determination of the schemes could remain with the Executive, however it is considered for expediency that delegation to director level will ensure decisions are taken without overburdening the executive.