Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Will the Minister include the summer months, if that is what the Government is going ahead with, to ensure that families could benefit from it?

She did not respond to my question regarding the Sinn Féin proposal of a voucher scheme that would benefit every man, woman and child in the country and local economies.

I also want to touch on the outdoor dining grant. As she said, it was a positive move with €12 million for local authorities to use in respect of adaptations for outdoor dining. The concern, however, is the €5 million allocated for individual businesses. She does not need me to tell her that the sector is on its knees. For the most part, and especially for June and July, it seems certain that it will be a case of outdoor dining. The sector will need every assistance to prepare for that, whether that involves weatherproofing, seaters and-or heaters. The sum of €5 million is insufficient in that regard. The sector is looking for the Minister to fight its corner. Will she insist that this allocation is increased? There are more than 10,000 premises affected between restaurants, pubs and hotels in the State. Not all of them will be able to adapt or claim the support, but-----

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