Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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269. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the status of the supports being offered to businesses that will benefit the night-time economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23290/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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A range of supports and measures from my Department and across other Departments have already been established for sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 Pandemic. These include the arts and creative sectors and the tourism sectors which contribute to the night-time economy.

The Night-time Economy is a hugely important sector, contributing to our economy and our cultural and creative sectors. I have been advised that the work of the Night Time Economy Taskforce, which I established last July, is nearing completion and that they expect to conclude their report in the coming weeks.

Since its establishment, the Taskforce has been examining all the challenges facing the development of a vibrant night time culture and economy such as regulations, licencing laws, transport, and diversity of cultural activities among other issues so our cities, towns and villages which have already faced so many challenges, will be able to find and develop new opportunities.

I look forward to the report which I expect will include practical suggestions to help build, support and sustain this important sector.

Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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270. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the measures her Department is considering in order to boost domestic tourism when inter-county travel and staycations are permitted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23291/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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The implementation of specific plans for promoting domestic tourism in Ireland when inter-county travel is permitted again are operational matters for Fáilte Ireland. I have accordingly referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply to the Deputy. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.