Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for his response and overview. I draw his attention to the hospitality sector. Often, when money is tight, eating out and staying somewhere overnight are things people will tighten up on as early as possible. Those businesses will possibly see a dramatic drop-off in their income. They are going to be pushed from both sides because many of their costs will remain high even if their restaurant or other facility is only half full or two thirds full. They will still have to run the same demand on fridges, heating, lighting, staff and so on. Will there be particular measures for businesses that are going to be hit from both sides? Will the Tánaiste give an outline of the scale of supports and whether those measures will be in the form of direct supports to enable such businesses to continue to operate? They are essential businesses in that they are providing jobs for people locally, including, in many cases, the first job for students and younger employees. It is essential that we keep them operating.

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