Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2020
137. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if specific programmes of support will be put in place as a matter of urgency to assist the tourism and hospitality sector through present challenges in view of the severe impact of Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14541/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has liaised with other Government departments and industry representative bodies, to align the economy wide COVID-19 supports and initiatives with tourism and hospitality needs. The Government will continue to explore funding potential for all enterprises including tourism businesses as they work through the challenges facing them, including through any mechanisms allowable through the EU’s state aid framework.
The Tourism Recovery Taskforce was established on 20th 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 Taskforce has submitted an initial report.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment that a July Jobs Initiative will be brought forward which will, among other things, take further sector specific measures where required. In this context the Government will consider additional measures that may be needed to support the tourism and hospitality sector.
Fáilte Ireland has also put in place a number of supports for the tourism and hospitality sector. I have asked Fáilte Ireland to provide the Deputy with further details in this regard. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
