FIANNA Fáil Spokesperson on Tourism and Aviation Cathal Crowe has welcomed today’s announcement of Phases 4 and 5 of the Strategic Tourism Business Continuity Scheme.
This announcement mounts to €30 million in grant aid for visitor attractions, outdoor tourism activity operators and tourism accommodation providers.
Phase 4 supports the likes of tourism golf courses and boat tour operators, up to a maximum of €800,000; while Phase 5 targets Fáilte Ireland approved accommodation providers, again up to €800,000.
“It goes without saying that the Covid pandemic has been an extraordinarily difficult period for the entire tourism sector,” said Deputy Crowe.
“Today’s announcement is a continuation of past schemes under the rolling Tourism Business Continuity programme and I’m glad to see a wide spectrum of tourism businesses included.
“When we think of visitor attractions here in Clare, we’ve got the likes of the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, Loop Head lighthouse, Inis Cealtra and so much more.
“These will be eligible for support – but crucially, so will outdoor activity providers, which also lure in a great many people.
“By giving the likes of these a leg up, this in turn will boost pubs, restaurants and accommodation providers and so on.
“The targeted funding for accommodation providers also has a wide scope, everything from hotels to camping sites and anything in between.
“We’re far from out of the woods yet in terms of getting back to full normality so continuous financial aid for the badly hit tourism sector is crucial.
“Businesses can apply for a grant from August 5th via the Fáilte Ireland website and I stand ready to assist any Clare business that wishes to avail of this funding.”
