In line with the sequence of actions detailed in ‘Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business’, the majority of tourism or tourism-related businesses are scheduled to reopen from Phase 4, which is also when travel beyond the home area (>20km) is due to be permitted. To assist tourism businesses meet social distancing and cleaning requirements in line with the national ‘Return to Work Safely’ protocol, Fáilte Ireland is currently preparing detailed guidelines for the sector, in consultation with the tourism industry and relevant authorities.
The Tourism Recovery Taskforce was established by Minister of State Brendan Griffin and I on 20 May 2020. The purpose of the Taskforce is to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023. The Taskforce may consult with stakeholders to inform its deliberations and will report back later this year.
It is envisaged that the Taskforce will establish working groups to carry out specific tasks and that it will undertake a widespread stakeholder consultation process whereby all sectors and interested parties will have an opportunity to provide constructive inputs and innovative ideas on how this vital sector to our economy can adapt and recover in a meaningful and sustainable way.
