Here’s everything we know about the ‘staycation subsidy’ 

The details of the voucher will be confirmed today with the July stimulus package

The availability of a “staycation voucher” is expected to be announced today as part of the €7 billion July stimulus package.

The Irish hospitality industry has suffered tremendously since the start of lockdown.

According to a PWC report, over half of the 180,000 employees in this sector lost their jobs by the end of March.

Bars, restaurants and hotels contribute up to €7.6 billion to the Irish economy alone, a now unattainable figure since lockdown started.

Last year, tourism related expenditure reached €9.4 billion with €5.1 billion coming from overseas tourists. 

Incentive

The new “staycation voucher” will offer an incentive to Ireland’s residents, promoting domestic travel into those areas usually frequented by tourists.

A tax refund of up to €125 will be offered to consumers who spend around €600 on accommodation, food or non-alcoholic beverages.

The government is hoping that this rebate will encourage people to travel across the country rather than abroad and help out the struggling hospitality industry at home.

It is expected that the voucher will remain valid from this autumn until April of next year.

Stimulus package 

The staycation incentive will be part of the July stimulus package, which will also offer support schemes for businesses and workers and public investments.

An extension of the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, currently supporting the wages of more than 400,000 workers, from the current end date of August 31 until next spring is also expected.

The Pandemic Unemployment Payment may also be extended into next year, although it will likely follow a gradual reduction plan.

 Much needed public investments in Irish water, walking and cycling infrastructure and schools are anticipated too.

An enhanced minor works scheme for schools may fund structural alterations to classrooms and renovate bathrooms to facilitate hand-washing.

As remote working will be continually encouraged, there may be an investment in the National Broadband Plan as well.

This July stimulus package will be followed by a national economic plan in October along with the announcement of Budget 2021.

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