Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of the hospitality sector and the challenges it faces after an incredibly difficult 12 months. Those challenges include the obvious issues caused by Covid-19 and endless lockdowns. They also include challenges which have not received the same attention, in particular, the loss of skilled and experienced employees from the sector. This includes head chefs, senior chefs, managers and so on, who were happy to build their futures in our sector a little over 12 months ago, but out of necessity for their families and for themselves, have gone into other areas during this time. Many will not return.

Having been involved in the sector for more than 20 years and spoken to colleagues who continue to work in the sector in Galway city and beyond, I know this is a most serious issue. As all Members of the House will be aware, the hospitality sector is a key part of the Irish economy, contributing in the region of €6 billion to €8 billion a year to the economy pre-Covid and employing around 200,000 people, many of whom are based in towns and villages across the country, where such jobs are particularly difficult to replace.

I welcome the comments made by the Taoiseach over the weekend in relation to a stimulus plan for the sector. His understanding of the challenges facing the sector is clear. Since he became Taoiseach 12 months ago, I have had numerous meetings and many conversations with him to emphasise that fact. The close involvement of the sector in developing the plan will benefit all parties. I note the Restaurant Association of Ireland has requested a hospitality task force comprising representatives from the hotel, restaurant and pub industries and from State agencies and Departments to implement a recovery plan. Those who are at the forefront facing these challenges on a daily basis have more knowledge of the sector than anyone else. We should utilise that knowledge in order to ensure the sector's recovery is as broad and as speedy as possible.