Mayo businesses hit by tourist bed reduction could be in line for budget supports

MAYO businesses affected by the loss of 21 percent of the county’s hotel bed stock could be in line for a support package in the upcoming budget.

According to a recent report in the Irish Independent, Fine Gael TDs are currently pushing for supports for businesses in areas affected by a drop in footfall from hotel beds being occupied by refugees.

Fáilte Ireland recently revealed that 21 percent of Fáilte-registered accommodation in Mayo is contracted to the government to house refugees.

Various forms of accommodation throughout Mayo are currently being used to accommodate refugees from Ukraine and International Protection Applicants.

Local county councillors and business representatives have voiced concerns over the long-term effects of a drop in footfall for auxiliary industries such as restaurants, cafés and other tourist enterprises.

Westport-based councillor Peter Flynn welcomed the proposal but said immediate intervention may not save businesses that are already on the brink of closure.

Tough winter

 “That’s the real worry because now we’re heading into another tough winter for businesses after coming through a really horrific summer between one thing and another. It’s whether these people can keep their doors open until next summer,” he told The Mayo News yesterday.

“In my opinion it is essential for all representatives to immediately engage and address these critical issues, especially considering recent crazy rate demands that have added to the challenges faced by local businesses.”

Cllr Flynn said the loss of footfall from the lack of tourist beds was an issue ‘right around the county’.

Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon is among those who has publicly called for government support for businesses in areas affected by reduced tourist accommodation.

“It is a concern for counties like Mayo and those on the western seaboard,” Deputy Dillon told the Irish Independent.

Earlier this year, local projects and community groups across Mayo received over €2.2 million from the government’s €50 million Community Recognition Fund.

The fund was introduced for city and county councils earlier this year to help support communities that have taken in Ukrainian refugees.