SDLP Foyle MLA and Economy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin
Said the Foyle MLA: “The Auditor has reported that support of £13.5 million paid under the Small Business Grant Scheme may have gone to ineligible businesses.
“This is very concerning.
“There have been many businesses in Northern Ireland in desperate need of financial help, but were unable to access it.
“We now learn that perhaps £13.5 million was paid to businesses that were not entitled to help, despite declaring that they were.
“I hope that officials will be able to recover these payments made in error.
“I have called for a further review of support available from the Northern Ireland Executive and departments for businesses here.
“The major support programmes such as furlough and the self employment income support scheme are provided by the UK government and the big gaps in help are therefore the responsibility of the UK government.
“However, I am still keen that the Executive does all that it can to support businesses in as fair and efficient manner as possible.”
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