A NEW €55 million scheme administered by Fáilte Ireland which opens for applications on this Thursday will provide a welcome boost for a new sector of the tourism businesses in Limerick.
That’s according to local Fine Gael TD Kieran O’Donnell who explained that the scheme will support tourism businesses that were not eligible for the Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) payment or previous Fáilte Ireland continuity grant schemes.
“I am confident this will have a positive impact on the industry in Limerick and will be key to helping it survive and thrive in the year ahead,” he told the Limerick Post.
The first phase of the Scheme is open to businesses including outdoor activity providers, visitor attractions not eligible for CRSS, caravan and camping providers registered with Fáilte Ireland and Cruise Hire companies who meet the eligibility criteria.
“The Government will continue to assess the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy and ensure that appropriate supports are in place. We are now developing tourism for survival through the pandemic and recovery in the medium and long term.
“The national tourism development authority has also announced its domestic marketing plans, investment commitments in outdoor dining and urban animation and its strategic priorities for the year ahead.
“Amongst its key projects for 2021, Fáilte Ireland has also committed to the enhancement of urban areas through the 31 Destination Town projects across the country and two new funding schemes.
“The Outdoor Dining Grant Scheme will improve the quality of outdoor dining spaces and offer reassurance around safety and comfort, while the Urban Animation Grant Scheme will animate our cities and towns with innovative lighting and art installations.
“Fáilte Ireland has also committed to preparing for the return of tourism by working with industry to build improved websites and online booking capability through a new digital transformation programme. This is all helping to keep Ireland front of mind for overseas buyers through a range of virtual sales events,” Deputy O’Donnell concluded.
