Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

102. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the criteria for the Fáilte Ireland outdoor dining scheme [32155/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The development and administration of the Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme, including eligibility criteria, are operational matters for Fáilte Ireland. Accordingly, I have asked the agency to provide further information directly to the Deputy. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

103. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason County Longford was excluded from the outdoor dining scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32156/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme comprises of two parts, which are being delivered in partnership between Fáilte Ireland and Local Authorities across the country.Although neither I nor my Department has any role in the development and administration of this scheme, Fáilte Ireland has advised that County Longford has not been excluded from this scheme.

With regard to Part One of the Scheme, I understand that it provides funding to assist individual tourism and hospitality businesses develop or increase their own outdoor seating capacity and is being administered and evaluated directly by each Local Authority.

As regards funding allocated under Part Two of the Scheme, this is intended to enable Local Authorities develop permanent outdoor public dining spaces in towns and urban centres, similar to those that exist in various European cities.I am advised that each Local Authority can apply to Fáilte Ireland for up to €200,000 under this element of the scheme, which is being administered and evaluated directly by Fáilte Ireland.