Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for the Economy, what support will be made available to hotels financially impacted by the introduction of Covid-related restrictions.
Minister for the Economy: Whilst the Omicron Hospitality Payment scheme agreed by the Executive before Christmas was warmly welcomed, there was huge disappointment and frustration that hotels were excluded.
I always maintained that hotels should have been included as they faced the same challenges as those businesses which were eligible for support. I wrote to the Finance Minister on two occasions (29 December and 22 January) urging him to extend the scheme to the hotel sector.
I am delighted that the Executive has now agreed to extend the scheme to the hotel sector thereby providing much needed support to this vital industry.
This payment will be between £10,000 and £20,000 dependent on the rateable value of the property.
ENDS
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