Does anyone fancy a winter getaway?

It looks like we could be getting an early Christmas present. Apparently, the Government is considering launching a tourism voucher scheme to help the industry get back on its feet. There's no doubt Ireland's tourism and hospitality services took one of the biggest hits during the Covid-19 pandemic. They were hit with lengthy closures during multiple lockdowns and saw little spending for months as the country stayed at home to save lives. To help support these industries, Minister Catherine Martin is hoping to launch a scheme where everyone in Ireland gets a €100 voucher to spend in Ireland's tourism and hospitality sectors. She told the Irish Mirror that a voucher scheme is currently being debated in Budget talks. The Tourism Minister said the €100 voucher would be given to the public in the winter. She is currently in negotiations with Ministers Paschal Donohoe and Michael McGrath. She told the publication: “There’s a lot to be considered for tourism supports, I know that is one of the issues they are looking at. “So, it’s part of the budget negotiations, so I’d prefer to keep that to the crucible of the budget negotiations, but just to say, that I’m very aware from engaging with the tourism and recovery oversight group of what their asks are.” “I’m open to all actions that will support the sector, especially during the off-peak season.” There's no doubt that a scheme like this would lift both the public's spirits after a brutal two years. It would also help boost our tourism and hospitality sectors. It's a win-win really. Let's just hope it will be approved in the Budget negotiations.