Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister with responsibility for tourism, Deputy Eamon Ryan, for taking the time to take this important debate. We are here today to discuss Shannon Heritage. It is part of the Shannon Group. We held a meeting with representatives of the Shannon Group in early June. They gave a commitment that they would look to apply for funding to Government to ensure that the Shannon Heritage sites, including King John's Castle in my constituency, could be opened year round. Currently, they are due for closure on 31 August and many of the other sites are not open at present.

There are 350 people employed at peak season and 145 of these are in place year round. We are calling on the Minister to look at the submission. We have already met the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, today as well as officials in the Department to discuss funding and the temporary wage subsidy scheme in particular. It is more than likely the scheme will be extended and this will be included in the costings. We need to get this open throughout the year. It is crucial for Shannon Heritage sites in the region.

I also wish to raise the aviation task force report. Will the Minister put funding in place for route supports out of Shannon Airport, Cork Airport and other airports in the area? This is specifically mentioned on page 6 of the report.

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