The COVID-19 crisis has had a devastating and unprecedented impact on the sectors for which I have responsibility. Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport are integral parts of the fabric of society, supporting economic activity, physical and societal well-being. Well-being should a core principle underpinning how we continue to live with COVID-19, as it will be fundamental to public confidence and resilience as we manage the crisis over the longer term.
My officials and I are in regular contact with stakeholders, industry, governing bodies and representatives in all of the sectors for which I have responsibility. I have established a number of sector specific taskforces to map out plans for the recovery of the tourism, arts, culture and sports sectors and ensure those sectors remain viable and resilient as we continue to deal with the pandemic. Those taskforces include:
- The Tourism Industry Taskforce;
- The Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce;
- The Night-time Economy Taskforce, and;
- An Expert Group on Return to Sport.
I will consider the views and recommendations of these taskforces in the context of Budget 2021 and in mapping out how to best help those sectors remain viable going forward. With the upcoming Budget and the development of the National Economic Plan, the Government will continue to review and refine existing supports, and consider any further necessary measures required as a consequence of COVID-19.