Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the Minister of State’s response. Many of the commitments are welcome. The sector acknowledges the support that has been received and the importance of that support. Many commitments the Minister of State mentioned are macro. They are for the overall industry. It is essential that we have commitments very soon that the EWSS and the CRSS will be continued after 1 December at their current rates. The VAT level changes on 31 August ahead of September. It seems rather silly to have two different VAT years for one calendar year, particularly in tourism and hospitality. Ireland is growing a reputation for autumn and early winter tourism. The industry does not have the certainty to market that. It needs certainty. As I said, no small business could sustain 50% cancellation rates in two weeks. The cancellations had begun before the restrictions to which the Minister of State referred were announced. They began with the overall messaging that was coming from NPHET in particular. The cancellations affect restaurants, pubs, Christmas parties, events and concerts. The musicians to whom the Minister of State referred are being absolutely hammered because their ticket sales have been cancelled. They need an urgent response in the coming days and weeks. Many of the supports the Minister of State mentioned are macro. The industry may not be there to benefit from them unless we get a response in place.

Finally, the EWSS should be expanded to protect key employees within hospitality, such as a chef, a particular barman or a skilled technician within an events company. The link between that company and the employee, as the Minister of State said, should be protected. The link between a company and a particularly valued employee should especially be protected. That is the basis on which we regrow and rebuild the industry. This industry is crucial not just for cities, but for revitalising our towns in our rural economy post Covid-19.

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