B&Bs in Donegal will now be eligible to benefit from the Restart Grant for Enterprises to help them reopen following lockdown.
The new measure was announced in the July Stimulus Package.
The funding has been described as a welcome boost to the local tourism sector the North West. B&Bs will now be eligible for funding of up to €25,000 to help with the costs associated with re-opening and re-employing workers following COVID-19 closures.
There are approximately 50 B&Bs operating in Donegal and 314 across the North West Region.
“Up until now the bed and breakfast sector in these counties, which is run by very proud families and individuals, have suffered due to a collapse in the international tourist market,” said Minister of State at the Department of Health, Frank Feighan.
B&Bs were not previously included in the restart grant scheme before it was expanded on Thursday.
“I know this will be extremely welcome news for B&B owners across the North West and puts them on an equal footing with other local enterprises.
“Also, to support our tourism sector, a new Stay and Spend incentive will allow any taxpayer who pays over €625 on accommodation, food and non-alcoholic drinks, between October and April 2021, claim back up to €125 through a tax credit,” Minister Feighan said.
“The July Jobs Stimulus is the next step in the Government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is focused on the steps we will take between now to the end of the year in order to retain and create jobs.
“Later this year, to coincide with the Budget in October, the Government will set out a National Economic Plan, to chart a long term, jobs-led recovery.”
