Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD has indicated that a decision on supports for the hospitality sector could be made within days.
Businesses in the county have expressed frustration after a meeting of Ministers last night concluded without a decision on whether supports will be extended beyond December 1st.
The cabinet sub-committee met last night to consider retaining certain COVID supports for businesses in the hospitality sector, including the wage subsidy scheme.
Its understood that Ministers were updated on the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme, which is due to be cut by 50% from December 1st, as well as the CRSS scheme for businesses.
No decision has yet been made however, though it was noted that could change if NPHET advice changes.
Pubs and restaurants in Clare are reporting that a large number of pre-Christmas bookings are being cancelled as a result of Government advice for people to reduce their social contacts.
Chair of Clare VFI, Ennis publican Charlie O’ Meara says people’s socialising habits have changed rapidly.
The Chair of the Shannon branch of the Irish hotels Federation says many businesses have ran out of cash and are operating on a knife edge.
Dermot Kelly says they need an answer today on whether supports will be extended.
An East Clare business is also calling on the Government for reassurances on the corporate rate, as well as on whether the VAT rate would be retained at 9% or further reduced.
Operations Manager at Durty Nelly’s in Bunratty says they’ve seen their bookings drop by 60% in the wake of the latest announcement on Government restrictions.
He believes the powers that be are operating in a bubble in Dublin, and are failing to see that rural Ireland has been decimated by the pandemic.
Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD expects a decision on supports within the coming days.
Cathal Crowe says everything must be done to avert another lockdown and that the Government must be responsive to the worsening situation in terms of rising cases.
The Meelick Deputy believes targetted supports are needed for the sector without delay.
