Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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55. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason that independent tourism providers cannot avail of the tour operators business continuity scheme for 2022; the reason that independent operators are excluded from this scheme despite operating successful and professional tourism related businesses for many years; if there is any other mechanism by which these businesses can avail of Covid-19 related tourism supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15257/22]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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In Budget 2022, I secured €50m for the Tourism Business Continuity Programme which is designed to support strategic tourism businesses to survive through the pandemic and to help drive the recovery of the Irish tourism industry. The Tourism Business Continuity Schemes for 2022 are managed by Fáilte Ireland.

In addition, in terms of other supports, Fáilte Ireland has designed several businesses supports, training and resources in the following tourism business areas:

- Marketing & Sales

- Finance

- Revenue Management

- Customer Service

- Food & Beverage Service.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for further information on the eligibility criteria for the Strategic Ireland Based Inbound Agents Tourism Business Continuity Scheme 2022 and for further information on the other businesses supports available. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.