Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
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261. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her assessment of the challenges that are facing the hospitality sector in view of the current Covid-19 environment taking into account the new restriction imposed on the sector which restricts its ability to trade (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57466/21]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The objective of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) is to support employment and maintain the link between the employer and employee insofar as is possible. The EWSS has been a key component of the Government’s response to the Covid-19 crisis.

The cost to date (18^thNovember) of the EWSS is over €6.3 billion comprising of direct subsidy payments of €5.505 billion and PRSI forgone of €865 million to 51,700 employers in respect of over 687,600 employees.

Government policy has been that there will be no cliff edge to the support, at the same time it is necessary to gradually unwind and phase out this temporary emergency support measure. That is why, on Budget Day, I announced the extension of EWSS in a graduated form until 30 April 2022. This ensures there will be no sudden end to the EWSS and also provides clarity and certainty to business.

Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government has adopted a proactive and dynamic approach to supporting businesses and individuals insofar as possible during this challenging time.

As regards the EWSS and the current circumstances referenced by the Deputy in his question, the Government continues to monitor developments closely and will consider if any response is required at an appropriate time.

Finally, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the comprehensive package of other business and employer supports that have been made available over the course of the last 18 months or so – including the Covid Restriction Support Scheme (CRSS), the Business Resumption Support Scheme (BRSS), the Credit Guarantee Scheme, the SBCI Working Capital Scheme, Sustaining Enterprise Fund, and the Covid-19 Business Loans Scheme. Details of the supports are available on the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s website at the following link - www.enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/