IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, has called on Government to intensify efforts to publish and commit to a roadmap for the safe reopening of the Experience Economy.
IBEC Director of Membership and Sectors, Sharon Higgins, said: “Government must urgently engage with stakeholders in the Experience Economy to detail a clear roadmap towards the safe reopening of the industry that reflects the risk reduction that the vaccine programme is delivering.
“The Experience Economy is crucial in making Ireland a great place to live, work and invest. Its stakeholders have borne the brunt of the devasting economic impact of Covid and the continued failure to provide clarity as to when vast portions of the industry can reopen only serves to add further pressure to an already struggling sector.
“While the health consequences are an important dimension, so too are the livelihoods of those driving Ireland’s Experience Economy and it must be noted that many have already missed out on opportunities afforded by the peak holiday season in Ireland. In the absence of any roadmap, at the very least commitments must be granted to extend financial supports to the sector, aligned with an enhancement in investment in the ongoing management of Covid with regards to antigen testing.”
They also noted the broader business community’s disappointment regarding the continued absence of any timelines to support businesses in safely returning staff to the workplace.
