Kilkenny tourism businesses can avail of new grants of up to €800,000

Local tourism operators have been urged to apply for new industry grants of up to €800,000.

The funding is available under the next two phases of Fáilte Ireland’s Strategic Tourism Business Continuity Scheme, which was announced this week.

Kilkenny TD John Paul Phelan said these phases of the scheme will provide financial support to visitor attractions, outdoor tourism activity operators and tourism accommodation providers.

The Ferrybank-based TD said: ‘Phase 4 will support eligible visitor attractions and outdoor activity operators, including tourism golf courses and boat tour operators. The maximum grant amount is €800,000.

“Phase 5 will apply to eligible Fáilte Ireland approved tourism accommodation providers such as hotels, guesthouses, hostels, holiday camps, caravan and camping parks, self-catering and B&Bs.”

Deputy Phelan urged tourism operators who have seen their business badly hit by the pandemic to avail of the funding.

“I would urge critical tourism businesses operating under these categories who continue operating throughout the important autumn and winter season to apply for this scheme,” he said.

“These businesses have been deeply affected by the lockdown, with their ability to make a living severely curtailed for so long. It is important that they are given every possible support to help them emerge intact from the pandemic and to build back in a more resilient and sustainable way.”

Both schemes will open for applications on the August 5, and close on September 17.