Brian Stanley (Laois, Independent)
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80. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his view on how rural pubs fit into the tourism strategy and qualify for public funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50757/25]

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Irish pubs are a valued part of Ireland’s hospitality offering and contribute to the character and vibrancy of many communities across the country. They also play a role as local employers and contribute to the social and economic fabric of rural and urban communities alike.

As the National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland promotes and highlight pubs with a strong tourism element, such as a unique visitor experience or those with a food offering, through marketing channels, including international media trips and ambassador activity.

In relation to supports, Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) provide a signposting service for all government supports available to small businesses and provide information/referrals to other relevant bodies under agreed protocols. To assist small and medium enterprises to tackle the rising cost of doing business, LEOs provide consultancy and grants to small businesses of all sectors, in the areas of Lean, Green, and Digital. These supports focus on enhancing productivity and improving competitiveness in small businesses.

In addition, enterprises can also contact the National Enterprise Hub (NEH) for assistance. The NEH is an all-of-government free service, staffed by expertly trained advisors and is focused on helping business owners access a range of government supports.

With regard to tourism policy, a Tourism Policy Framework for the period to 2030 was approved by the last Government in November 2024. I’ve asked officials to consider how commitments in the new Programme for Government (PFG) align with the Policy Framework and to prioritise the finalisation of a new Tourism Policy Statement which reflects the PFG and other Government priorities. It will also reflect tourism’s new positioning in the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.

Drafting of the new Policy Statement is at an advanced stage and I expect it to be finalised shortly. It will ensure a strong, resilient tourism sector which benefits every community in Ireland.