Small Business Minister Jason Azzopardi spoke about government assistance to small companies when he visited Mifsud Garage Ltd, of Vittoriosa, which has received assistance under the Microinvest scheme.

The scheme offers tax credit up to 40 % of the investment made, to help small businesses improve their operation. Dr Azzopardi urged more companies to apply under the scheme and others which are available.

Mifsud Garage Ltd, which offers transport services and chauffer-driven transport, has as a result of the scheme taken on two more full-time employees.

Dr Azzopardi also referred to the Business First scheme, launched in January, where would-be businessmen would have their needs seen to under one roof.

A director of the company, Anthony Gellel, spoke about the improvements they made at their garage, and said the company would be applying again for more assistance under the scheme.

Dr Azzopardi said over 730 businesses had benefited from the Microinvest scheme, with some €4.5 million doled out in tax credits.