Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 May 2021
269. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the status of the supports being offered to businesses that will benefit the night-time economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23290/21]
View answerA range of supports and measures from my Department and across other Departments have already been established for sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 Pandemic. These include the arts and creative sectors and the tourism sectors which contribute to the night-time economy.
The Night-time Economy is a hugely important sector, contributing to our economy and our cultural and creative sectors. I have been advised that the work of the Night Time Economy Taskforce, which I established last July, is nearing completion and that they expect to conclude their report in the coming weeks.
Since its establishment, the Taskforce has been examining all the challenges facing the development of a vibrant night time culture and economy such as regulations, licencing laws, transport, and diversity of cultural activities among other issues so our cities, towns and villages which have already faced so many challenges, will be able to find and develop new opportunities.
I look forward to the report which I expect will include practical suggestions to help build, support and sustain this important sector.
