Message from / The CEO ISME Welcomes / New Members ISME / News HR Update / Bullying at Work Member Feature / ISME Members Partner Up Training Courses / Course Updates Tax Update / Dates for the Diary Legal Update / Revenue BIK Concessions
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Dear member, On 1st February we launched our campaign to raise funds for a legal challenge to force the creation of a fair system for private sector pension savers. The last Public Service Pay Commission report found that while there is almost 100% pension coverage in the public sector, the overall figure for the private sector is 40%. This means that workers in the private sector who aspire to a pension even close to that of a similarly paid public sector worker, would have to surrender more than a third of their salary. To support the challenge ISME is calling on private pension holders to make a donation today. Find out more and donate here In other news last week, the Tánaiste indicated that Statutory Sick Pay will be introduced soon. When we receive an update on this, we will circulate a notice to Members. Thank you to everyone who attended our EGM on Tuesday last. We are delighted to announce the technical amendment to the ISME constitution which will allow us to conduct our business remotely, consistent with the rules of ISME was approved. We are aware of some groups operating on social media advocating the “great reopening.” They are encouraging the owners of businesses to open them in defiance of the public health guidelines. They appear to share membership with the anti-vax and anti-mask movements. These groups have nothing to do with ISME, and as far as we can tell, nothing to do with SMEs. We urge our membership to comply with the public health guidance and to refrain from any contact with these groups. ISME will hold another virtual networking event, Pitch my Business, on Thursday the 11th of February. This event is free and open to all where you can network and promote your company with a two-minute pitch to fellow attendees. Places are limited so register now. Following the success of the ISME and Google’s Grow with Google webinars in 2020 we are delighted to announce we will be hosting two more informative webinars for ISME members. The focus of the two free events are Google Analytics on 24th February and your Digital Marketing Strategy on 24th March. Find out more and register for the events here. ISME Skillnet have announced their upcoming February courses: • • • •
Getting Hired In A Virtual World- 3 Part Series- 9th, 11th and 12th February PowerPoint Slide Master Template Training- 10th February Your Website and Digital Marketing Strategies- 16th, 17th, 18th February 2021 Lean & Fit Entrepreneurial Bootcamp – Starting 17th February
Spring is upon us so let’s hope that this season brings more hope, growth and prosperity for SMEs across the country. Looking beyond COVID and Brexit, we would ask that if you are in a position to donate to our pension equality challenge please do. We will keep you updated on progress. Neil McDonnell | CEO | neil@isme.ie
Read here
NEW MEMBERS: NEW MEMBERS
New members:
Bizfly Limited t/a Swoop Celtic Relocations Crystal Clean Services E Pearson & Company Ltd First Rung Services Imagine Coaching John Eaton & Co McDermott & O'Shea Mocha Mania Ltd t/a Blue Star Coffee Rochefreight Warehousing Ltd SGS Ireland Ltd Sligo Volunteer Centre Soft Skill Success Talentpool Virtual Limited Totem Web World Ireland
NEWS NEWS ISME launch legal challenge for pension equality ISME is raising funds for a legal challenge to force the creation of a fair system for private sector pension savers. By way of crowdfunding, ISME intends to raise €500,000. Our three objectives are: 1. Tax relief for private sector pension savers must be maintained at the current marginal rate of taxation 2. Private sector workers mustn’t be discriminated against via the “income ceiling” on contributions 3. Many public sector pensioners enjoy pensions that would require a fund far in excess of the current €2m “standard fund threshold” (SFT) even though they do not have to fund their pension. Yet higherearning private sector workers are financially penalised if they save more than €2m of their own money for their pension. Find out more and donate to the challenge here Skillnet Ireland named as Best Agency Support to Business We are delighted to announce that Skillnet Ireland has been named ‘Best Agency Support to Business’ in the InBusiness Recognition Awards 2020, for the third year in a row! Commenting on the award win, Paul Healy, Chief Executive of Skillnet Ireland said; “It is a great pleasure for me to accept this InBusiness award on behalf of Skillnet Ireland. 2020 has been a year like no other and one we will all remember for a long time to come. For us at Skillnet Ireland, for our enterprise partners and for the businesses and workers we support, it’s been a challenging year, but one in which we were able to respond with speed, agility and impact, to make a big difference to the businesses we support and to the lives of the workers who are employed in these businesses. Read more here. Pitch My Business – Registration now open ISME will hold another virtual networking event, Pitch my Business, on Thursday the 11th February at 10.30am. This event is free and open to all where you can network and promote your company with a two-minute pitch to fellow attendees. This event is limited to 30 spaces so register today.
NEWS NEWS BREXIT and Christmas Crackers Economic operators established in the UK are no longer considered as economic operators established in the EU. Consequently an economic operator established in Ireland who places Christmas Crackers on the market which have been sourced from an economic operator in the UK and where that UK operator has either manufactured the crackers themselves or imported them from another “third country” will now become an EU importer. Read more here COVID-19 Hub for ISME Members ISME have developed an online Members only hub with tools and templates to help guide you during this difficult time. Included in the COVID-19 page are explainers and links to all government schemes, HR resources, best practice advice and supports. Access by logging into the Members Area of the website here Annual Irish Residential Property Report The number of residential property transactions declined sharply in 2020 according to the latest GeoView Residential Buildings Report published by GeoDirectory and EY-DKM today. In the twelve months to November 2020, there were a total of 35,542 residential property transactions across the State, a drop of 21.1% compared to the previous year. Read the full report here Review of Workplace Injury In December 2020, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) published its Annual Review of Workplace Injury, Illness and Fatality Statistics for 2018-2019. This report details the causes and characteristics of injuries, illnesses and fatalities in the workplace. The HSA’s report emphasises the importance of ensuring that risk assessments are implemented, and reviewed as necessary to ensure employee safety. Effective supervision is seen as a significant factor in reducing incidents. The full report is available here.
NEWS NEWS Energy Management workshops SEAI are offering a free 'Introduction to Energy Management' course for SMEs. This is an online workshop designed to help you understand how much your business is spending on energy and what energy-saving measures you could implement to reduce consumption and cut your bills. The course consists of 2 one-hour sessions, with an optional follow-up phone call from an energy advisor. Find out more here or email business@seai.ie if you are interested in attending an online Energy Management workshop. Wellbeing Live from Laya Healthcare Laya Healthcare have developed Wellbeing Live – all free, all live and all available to you at home. Take a look at their portal here and if you want to further support your employees, we would encourage you to take a look at our Wellness Programme with Laya Healthcare here. Get valuable insights and practical tips empowering you to live and feel better during this challenging time on their COVID-19 expert podcast series. Energy Efficiency Management Actions survey among SMEs in the EU In its European Green Deal, the European Commission clearly states that “Energy efficiency must be prioritised”. It also highlights the key role of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in delivering the transition to a sustainable economy. They will develop programmes to encourage and support the uptake of energy efficiency measures by SMEs. The European Copper Institute are looking for feedback from different SMEs on this so they can draw sound conclusions and advocate for a policy framework that better supports SMEs in a more systematic adoption of energy efficiency. They would ask you complete this survey here. Results of ISMEs Q4 Surveys are now LIVE Last week ISME released the results of our Q4 2020 survey results. Our Bank Watch Survey found Demand for credit is at 29%, up 18% from Q3. Read the report in full here. The latest Trends Report found BREXIT Uncertainty dropped by 4 percent to 46%. Business Confidence rose by 15%, bringing the Q4 total to -33%, compared to -48% in Q3. This aligns with Economic Uncertainty, which dropped by 7% this quarter. Read in full here.
NEWS NEWS ISME & Google Digital Garage webinars are back We are delighted to be able to continue our partnership with Google to host more Grow with Google webinars in 2021 for ISME members. The first event will take place on February 24th at 11.00amand it is focused on Google Analytics, developed to help businesses outcome understand your data and to use analytics to drive business success The second event has a more general focus on Digital Marketing Strategy on 24th March at 11.00am showing the fundamentals of how to develop, implement and track a digital marketing strategy and how your business can benefit from it. Find out more and register for both here BREXIT Importing & Exporting The Irish Government, partnered with Skillnet Ireland and other industry have launched Clear Customs – Essential Customs Training to support Irish businesses trading with, or through the UK, to prepare them for new customs formalities arising from Brexit. Clear Customs offers eligible customs agents, customs intermediaries and affected businesses a free training programme to build capacity in the customs sector. Find out more here. Brexit: Resources from ISME ISME have created a page for BREXIT resources to help you navigate these unknown times. Included on the page is A Brexit Guide written by Paul McMahon who was a regular ISME Roadshow speaker in 2019. ‘BrexitLegal.ie’ is a comprehensive free website about Brexit for Irish business. Read more here. ISME are also running a free Brexit Q&A on Wednesday 27th January at 11.30am Find out more Promote your business with ISME Advertising with ISME is an effective way to reach Owner / Managers of Irish SMEs. Members can advertise in our online publication The bISME, the next issue is due out in Spring 2021. You can advertises for free through the Shop Local and Back to Business campaigns. If you wish to receive members rates and more details on promotional opportunities please email Marketing@isme.ie
HR UPDATE NEWS New code of practice on bullying at work A new Code of Practice for Employers and Employees on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work came into effect by way of Statutory Instrument on 23 December’ 20. The Code was prepared by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The aim of this process was to create a single joint-code, encompassing the remit and responsibilities of both bodies under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Industrial Relations Act 1990.
Firstly, an “initial informal process” should be undertaken whereby an employee who feels they are being bullied, raises the issue directly with the respondent, if the employee is comfortable doing so. Secondly, should the above step fail or where it is deemed inappropriate, the Code suggests a “secondary informal process”. This involves appointing an independent person within the employer to deal with the complaint.
The Code replaces the HSA’s 2007 code of practice and the Labour Relations Commission’s (now the WRC) 2002 code of practice in respect of bullying at work.
Once a complaint is resolved, the Code recommends that both parties should be given relevant support and periodical reviews if reasonable. Employers are also encouraged to consider whether other support services should be offered.
The Code applies to all employment relationships whether or not employees are in the workplace or at home.
The formal approach to dealing with bullying at work:
There is no change to the definition of bullying that has been in use since 2001. The new Code reiterates that behaviour can be either bullying or harassment. It can not be both, as they are two legally separate concepts.
A formal process should only be applied after all informal avenues have been exhausted. The Code notes that a formal process is a “significant step” and “all parties should be aware of the possible consequences”. Malicious complaint of bullying at work:
What is included in the new Code on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work? The Code outlines the steps an employer should take in order to prevent bullying at work. These include completing risk assessments in relation to bullying at work and identifying preventative responses. The new code has introduced a strong emphasis on the importance of creating a positive organisational culture. The aim is to maintain a workplace free from bullying.
The new Code also emphasises the seriousness of a malicious complaint. This is a complaint which is made either “knowingly or without regard to whether it is true or not”. Malicious complaints may have serious implications for a complainant and an alleged respondent. Is a failure to comply with the Code of on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work an offence?
The two steps to an informal approach to dealing with bullying at work:
A failure to observe or comply with the Code is not an offence. However employers should be aware that the Code can be used in evidence before the WRC, the Labour Court and the criminal courts (in proceedings under the 2005 Act) to show compliance or non-compliance with the Code.
The new Code identifies the benefit of using and informal approach to complaints of bullying. It breaks the informal process into two distinct steps.
Employers should take steps now to review their existing policies and procedures in order to ensure they meet the standards established by the Code.
The Code also highlights the key benefits of mediation at an early stage in matters of workplace bullying.
NEWS
ISME MEMBERS WORKING TOGETHER Property Locator teams up with Elephant Click and Store
PropertyLocator.ie has hit the ground running this year with the announcement that Elephant Click and Store has become their Lead Storage partner commencing with effect from 1st January 2021. ISME are delighted to have played a part in this as our Sales Manager, Tom Corcoran introduced the two digital-based companies to each other which to this online collaboration. PropertyLocator.ie is Ireland's only dedicated Commercial Property Digital Showroom and related business platform which launched in February 2020. The platform has enjoyed a steady increase in traffic over the final 6 months of 2020 and is looking forward to celebrating its first anniversary. The platform includes property listings all over Ireland rom national and international agents including Lisney, JLL, Colliers, Knight Frank and BNP Paribas. Other lead partners on the Property Platform include AIB and CPL. Elephant Click and Store is a leading offsite storage provider, supplying storage to commercial and domestic clients in a cost-effective manner. Its flexibility caters to clients' needs by allowing them to increase or decrease their storage space when necessary. Companies which use Elephant Click and Store include Specsavers, Hidden Hearing, Lidl and Aldi. To celebrate the partnership, new customers can avail of a special introductory offer of one month's free storage by using promotional code available on Elephant Click and Store page on Propertylocator.ie If you are interested in working with another ISME member please view our Member Directory in the Members Area of isme.ie or contact membership@isme.ie
FEBRUARY COURSES
Invest in your future ISME Skillnet have 2 fully funded online Skills Connect Programmes for people receiving a COVID support payment for example PUP, EWSS or unemployed: • QQI Level 7 Certified Digital Sales & Marketing • QQI Level 6 Essential Management Skills Both have been designed specifically to help workers rapidly reskill and adapt to a changing business landscape. Email skillnet@isme.ie to learn more.
TAX UPDATE
February
Dividend Withholding Tax
14th
Due date for payment and filing of returns of withholding tax on dividends paid by companies in January 2021. PAYE/PRSI
23rd
Filing and payment of PAYE/PRSI deductions for January 2021 (ROS Filers). Corporation Tax
23rd
Company year-end 31st March 2021: Preliminary tax due, minimum 90% of total liability for the year. Small companies can pay 100% of previous year’s liability. Company year-end 31st May 2020: Payment of balance of corporation tax and filing of corporation tax return. If this is paid by ROS, the payment date is extended to 23rd February 2021. Relevant Contracts Tax (RCT)
23rd
RCT monthly return and payment for January 2021. Corporation Tax
29th
Company year-end 31st August 2019: Close companies with undistributed profits may have to make a distribution by this date to avoid surcharge. Company year-end 31st May 2020: Filing of ‘Return of third-party information’ (Form 46G). Company Secretarial
29th
Company year-end 31st May 2020: Final date for holding Annual General Meeting.
COVID 19 – REVENUE BIK CONCESSIONS Revenue announced that the following BIK concessions will be reinstated due to the re-introduction of the Level 5 public health restrictions in December 2020. Small Benefit Exemption During 2020, Revenue offered a concession whereby an employer was permitted to provide multiple vouchers to frontline or other key employees who worked during the period of the Covid-19 crisis, once the aggregate total did not exceed €500 (i.e., an employer was permitted to give a qualifying employee 2 or more vouchers at different times during 2020, but the aggregate total could not exceed €500). This concession has been reinstated and applies to employees who continue to work during the restricted period. Company Vehicles The concessions which were in place in 2020 in respect of company vehicles (cars or vans) continue to apply. No BIK will apply for the duration of the period where: • An employer takes back possession of the vehicle and the employee has no access to it, or • An employee retains the vehicle, but the employer prohibits use of the vehicle and there is no private use of the vehicle. Where an employee retains a company car during the Covid-19 pandemic and • limited or reduced business use (if any) occurs, and • personal use is limited, the amount of business kilometres travelled in January 2020 can be used for the purpose of calculating BIK for the period of the Covid-19 restrictions. Appropriate records should be retained in all circumstances such as photographic evidence of the odometer, communications from employer, business travel in January 2020, as applicable.
Prepared for ISME by: Byrne & McCall Tel: (01)612 0580 Fax: (01) 620 5625 email: info@byrnemccall.ie www.byrnemccall.ie
Use of Cars by Employees in the Motor Industry Special rules apply for determining the taxable BIK arising for an employee in the motor industry who has frequent changes of company cars. These rules do not apply where the employee has use of a specific car(s) for a period(s) of 1 month or greater. During 2020, Revenue concessionary allowed these rules to continue where the employee was prevented from changing the car at least once per month due to Covid-19. This concession continues to apply. Payment of Taxi Fares Where an employer pays for a taxi to transport an employee to or from work due to health and safety concerns, BIK will not apply for the duration of the Covid-19 period. Employer Provided Accommodation Due to health and safety concerns arising from Covid-19, an employee may be provided with temporary accommodation by his or her employer to mitigate against potential transmission risks. Revenue are prepared to accept that a taxable BIK will not arise during the period of the Covid-19 crisis where the accommodation is temporary in nature and the reason is to mitigate against the risk of transmission (e.g. where an employee returns from an overseas trip and requires self-isolation, or where there is a concern of transmission to other frontline staff members/workers residing in the same household). Flu Vaccination and Covid-19 Testing A taxable BIK will not arise in respect of costs incurred by an employer in providing Covid-19 testing in the workplace or providing Covid-19 test kits to employees. Similarly, a taxable BIK will not arise where an employer pays for flu vaccinations to be carried out on employees or reimburses employees for the cost of the vaccination. Employees can claim tax relief for the flu vaccine if they incur the cost themselves.
Accountants & Tax Advisors, Core B, Block 71, Accountants & Tax Advisors, The Plaza, Core B, Block 71, Park TheWest, Plaza,Dublin 12. Park West, Dublin 12.