Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2020
69. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the degree to which she can assist the events, tourism and sport sectors which have been severely and negatively hit by the Covid-19 virus; the extent to which she has engaged with those involved with a view to a longer term strategy in an effort to maintain employment in these vital areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27367/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
