Getting Kerry’s hard-hit tourism industry back on track…

UNDOUBTEDLY we face a real and difficult challenge to rebuild our tourism industry in Kerry and supporting each other will be important. However, the recovery of the sector also requires decisive action by the Government, particularly in relation to Government controlled costs.

For hoteliers and guesthouse owners, and others in the wider tourism sector here in Kerry, and elsewhere across the country, the main priority will always be the health and safety of guests and employees and our families and the wider communities.

We are developing procedures to ensure a safe environment for our teams and those looking to take a well-deserved and enjoyable staycation in an Irish hotel when we reopen after the lockdown.

Tourism has been an important driver of job growth in Kerry over the last decade, and with the right supports, it will play a significant role again. While the domestic market is likely to recover first, we are looking forward - along with other tourism enterprises and the wider county - to welcoming people from across Ireland to Kerry this summer, maybe some for the first time and in the hope that they will come again and again.

The tourism amenities that we can showcase in Kerry are second to none, add in the magnificent scenery, lakes, beaches, mountains, national parks and golf courses. We are currently working very closely to deliver a Kerry Safe Destination. Also, we provide many ranges of hotels and accommodation to excellent standards that makes our unique destination even better.

Lastly, we are calling for a permanent reduction of the Tourism VAT rate, a waiver on local authority rates and charges until the impact of COVID-19 restrictions has abated and for a minimum of 12-months, as well as targeted liquidity measures to provide working capital for tourism businesses to survive and restart.

It is essential for a continuation of the job subsidy scheme until we are able to come to grips with the loss of business in the county and are able to keep our employees in jobs. In the meantime, take care, stay safe and enjoy a holiday in Kerry this year.

Bernadette Randles

Chairperson of Kerry Branch IHF