The tourism and hospitality sector needs urgent help in the face of a sharp fall-off in bookings in the wake of the Covid-19 virus.
That is according to Galway East TD and Minister Rural Affairs Seán Canney.
Minister Canney is calling on the Minister for Finance Paschal Donohue to approve a rescue package for the tourism, hospitality and leisure industries.
He added: “Some businesses are facing an immediate threat to their existence because of the disruption caused by the virus.
“While I very much welcome the assurances given by the Central Bank and the Revenue Commissioners for all businesses that may face difficulties, it is a first step.
“We need measures within days to prevent a situation where thousands of jobs may be lost with all tourism, hospitality and leisure businesses – small, medium and large – facing into a crisis.
“This is an unprecedented situation and I am joining other Ministerial colleagues in calling for certain taxes and payments to be deferred to give the economy an opportunity to recover.
“I am also calling for a €15 million increase in funding for Fáilte Ireland, an increase of €25 million for Tourism Ireland’s Tourism Marketing Fund and supplements for air carriers subject to State Aid considerations.
“Action is required now before it is too late.”

For more information, contact Minister Canney on 086-2513639
March 14 2020