Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 September 2021
117. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on any meetings or engagements he or his Department have held with the play and leisure industry or amusement trade associations. [43475/21]
View answerMy Ministerial colleagues and I in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment have engaged with various sectors throughout this pandemic to assess the required supports needed for businesses to rebuild and recover.
Earlier this year, I met with the Irish Amusement Trade Association and representatives of the Irish Showman’s Guild and my colleague Minister Damien English TD has engaged with Play Activity & Leisure Ireland (PALI).
As the Deputy is aware, the Government have published Ireland’s plan for the next and final phase response to the COVID-19 pandemic COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting. During the period between 1 September and 22 October, the gradual approach to reopening will continue, from the 20th of September leisure facilities where patrons have defined areas which are pre-booked may open. Subject to the continuation of this progress, we will enter a final phase on 22 October, which will see the majority of restrictions lifted and replaced by guidance and advice.
The Government has provided a broad package to help businesses and workers during the pandemic, details of the ongoing supports can be found on my Department’s website: Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses - DETE (enterprise.gov.ie).
For the play and leisure sector I would highlight that eligible business can now apply for the Government's new Business Resumption Support Scheme (BRSS). My colleague, the Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe TD, on 6th September last announced the launch of the BRSS as a new support scheme for businesses with reduced turnover as a result of public health restrictions, with a maximum payment of €15,000. The BRSS is a general scheme and is open to any businesses whose turnover remains impacted as a result of public health restrictions. Businesses who previously availed of other schemes such and SBASC, the Tourism Business Continuity Scheme and CRSS will be eligible to apply provided they meet the qualifying criteria.
I remain open to meeting with the various trade organisations to continue the valuable discussions.
