Restaurants Association of Ireland express huge disappointment with lack of economic focus for Tourism in new Department realignment

• Exclusion of Tourism from standalone department to address the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the sector sends shockwaves across Restaurant Businesses
• RAI look forward to working closely with Minister Catherine Martin T.D to rebuild and stabilise the Restaurant and Tourism Sector

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The Restaurants Association of Ireland expressed significant disappointment that tourism had not been included within an economic portfolio. Adrian Cummins CEO of Restaurants Association of Ireland said “The Restaurants Association of Ireland is extremely disappointed that an industry such as Tourism, that employs 265,000 people and contributes €9 billion to the economy has not been included within an Economic Ministry by the new Government."

Adrian Cummins said “The Programme for Government is very clear; Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important economic sectors and the Government recognises its significance as a source of local employment and regional development. COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on tourism and the Government will, as a matter of urgency, set out how we will support the sector through the remainder of 2020.

We expect the new Government to deliver on its commitment to our sector in the Programme for Government in the July Economic Stimulus.

The Restaurant & Tourism Industry has been hit hardest by Covid-19 and the impact on our sector has had a decimating impact on every Restaurant Business across Ireland. The industry requires urgent, immediate and continued economic assistance, hence not be included within an economic or business portfolio is very disappointing”.

Adrian Cummins wished Catherine Martin T.D well in her role as Cabinet Minister for Media, Arts, Culture, Tourism, Sport and the Gaeltacht and said the industry was looking forward to working with her.  "We have sought an urgent meeting with Minister Martin to discuss the July stimulus package needed to deliver for Restaurants & Tourism as per the Programme for Government.

As the representative body for restaurants, cafés and gastropubs, with over 3000 members, The Restaurants Association of Ireland eagerly awaits the opportunity to work with you over the coming months to rebuild and stabilise the Irish Restaurant Sector. We have recommendations to resolve the very real concerns facing the food tourism sector, which is a vital component of the wider Tourism and Hospitality offering in Ireland."

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