Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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260. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if clarification will be provided on a matter (details supplied) in relation to the self-catering sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23113/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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I am aware of the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the tourism accommodation sector, including self-catering businesses, and most importantly, the people working in the sector. I am particularly conscious of the reliance of visitor attractions on international visitors and the repercussions of restrictions on international travel for the sector. As set out in the Tourism Recovery Plan, survival, stabilisation and recovery are the requirements for tourism and I will continue to work with industry stakeholders on the measures required.

In today's market, offering a wide variety of tourist accommodation helps ensure that various consumer preferences can be catered for and also enhances supply in areas or at periods of high demand. The self-catering sector plays a significant role in this regard, adding to the tourism accommodation stock in popular rural areas, and offering visitors autonomy and flexibility.

Horizontal support schemes such as the EWSS, PUP and the Rates Waiver have been worth hundreds of millions of euro to the broader tourism and hospitality sectors. In line with the recommendations of the Recovery Oversight Group, the Government extended the economy-wide supports for businesses and employees until the end of June and has committed that there will not be a cliff edge end to the supports currently in place.

I am aware that Fáilte Ireland, as the National Tourism Development Authority tasked with supporting the sustainable long-term growth of Ireland's tourism industry, engages regularly with the Irish Self-Catering Federation on a range of activities and supports for the sector.

I am referring the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for further direct reply to the Deputy including details of its engagements with the Irish Self Catering Federation and continued support for the self-catering sector. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.