Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her comprehensive reply. One third of tourism accommodation is pretty much tied in providing refuge at this time for people who are fleeing the war in Ukraine and other humanitarian crises. It is felt in County Clare more than anywhere. There is a larger cohort of accommodation in Clare committed to these schemes than anywhere else in the country. There are, however, many businesses locked out of this. Businesses such as surf schools, open farms and restaurants or offering pony trekking as well as the four- and five-star hotels that are not configured to take in Ukrainian refugees or international protection refugees have seen their business model totally collapse. People just cannot book in County Clare for weekend weddings or long-term trips. I know of one fleadh cheoil group that was coming to Clare from the United States. They were going to stay for a while but could not get accommodation and had to cancel their entire trip. We are seeing this repeatedly.

I am particularly keen to hear more on the business support scheme. I want to home in on the types of businesses that are locked out of what we have just spoken about. Hotels in County Clare have received, I believe, in the region of €23 million so far for engaging in the scheme but so many businesses have seen their income go the opposite way. I would love to hear what the Minister can do for those businesses to pick them up a little and ensure they survive this crisis.

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