Some 4,411 independent operators have each received an allowance of 2,000 euros from the Flemish Government as compensation for the effects of public works since the compensatory allowance was introduced on the 1st of July 2017. This was reported on Monday by Het Nieuwsblad, based on data from the Vlaams agentschap innoveren en ondernemen (Flemish Agency for Innovation and Enterpreneurship).
Just over 8.8 million euros were paid out all told.
The previous federal government system of “compensatory payments”, had had less success. On average, only 235 Flemish entrepreneurs had applied for it each year, according to the Neutral Union for Independents (SNI), which represents independent professionals and small businesses.
The Flemish compensation system has been more popular for two reasons, according to the SNI.
“Firstly, the famous obligation to close has been scrapped. Business can continue to operate during the famous works,” said the union. “Additionally, business people in an area under works are automatically informed by the Flemish Government. The only thing they still have to do is submit an application at www.vlaio.be."
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The Brussels Times
