Annie Hoey (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I want to ask if any of the witnesses would like to comment on the stay and spend credit scheme. I know there has been a discussion on this issue. Many of those in the tourism sector previously predicted problems with the scheme and, as we have seen, some of them have become a reality. It was budgeted to cost the Exchequer €27 million. My colleague, Deputy Duncan Smith, submitted a parliamentary question on this issue and the figures were very low. I believe the related expenditure was around €9,200,000. It was far less than had been budgeted. Obviously, we have been in lockdown. I have spoke to people in the industry and some of them said that the scheme was very cumbersome and bothersome. Do the witnesses see the value in the scheme for the sector? Is it something which they see as being a benefit to them in the sector? I know that the scheme does not cover alcohol, so perhaps I am not directing my request for comments to the vintners in attendance today. As it is currently envisioned and laid out, is this scheme working for the sector or do we need to look at a scheme like that in operation in the UK, where the emphasis is put back on Government to pay part of the bill from an invoice from the tourism or restaurant provider? Is the scheme working? Is it going to actually benefit those it is supposed to benefit? Will it benefit the sector, or do we need to look at something different?