Munster Vales would like to acknowledge it is an uncertain time for our tourism providers across the region given the new government restrictions. The latest Level 3 status brings a new set of challenges to the tourism industry nationwide and we empathise with you at this very stressful and worrying time. If we can be of any assistance please get in touch.
Tourism Recovery Plan
Minister Catherine Martin presented the Tourism Recovery Plan developed by the Tourism Recovery Taskforce to Cabinet last week. The Taskforce made a number of recommendations to help stabilise the tourism sector, protect as many jobs and businesses as possible and boost recovery in the years ahead. These recommendations include business continuity grants and additional operational supports for enterprises, and increased domestic and overseas marketing expenditure, among others. View the Tourism Recovery Plan via www.gov.ie.
Message from the CEO of Fáilte Ireland
Due to the current restrictions and a ban on non-essential travel, all our consumer marketing campaign and conversion activity has been paused until it is appropriate to resume in line with Government public health announcements. This includes “Make a break for it”; COVID-19 Safety Charter; “Come here to me Dublin” and the Stay & Spend Scheme. Promotion of the COVID-19 Adaption Fund and Restart Grant Plus for B&Bs however will continue across various media channels.
The Office of Public Works have closed all indoor OPW Heritage sites under the government’s Plan for Living with COVID-19. These restrictions have resulted in the closures of Cahir Castle, Dungarvan Castle, and Ormond Castle. Doneraile Estate will remain open with limited access to the grounds. No guided tours will take place until further notice. There is exterior access to the Rock of Cashel, offering half price admission. Online booking is required. The Swiss Cottage is closed due to restrictions, with limited access to the grounds. The site will close for the season from Sunday 1st November. Outdoor playgrounds, play areas and parks all remain open with protective measures in place, as do the outdoor spaces at some National Monuments.
In addition, the new restrictions have resulted in the closure of museums, galleries and other cultural attractions.
Coronavirus Battle Plan
Tourism Marketing Agency has compiled a Coronavirus Battle Plan for Marketing through the Crisis. The plan highlights the importance of staycations, and the value of online content, among others, acting as a helpful guide for the tourism industry. Download the full PDF on the battle plan here.
Ballyhoura Development Online Training
Ballyhoura Development is running a series of valuable workshops and training throughout October to support businesses. The free events will be delivered online during a morning and evening schedule; however, booking is essential. The programme covers topics comprising of Sales, Marketing & Branding for Business, Moving Business and Sales Online, and many more. Those interested in this great opportunity can register via Ballyhoura Development CLG website by following the link https://www.ballyhouradevelopment.com/forms/business-training-registration-form. The programme is supported by the Local Enterprise Office Limerick and SICAP, the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme. Note the training and workshop series is not limited to those within the Ballyhoura area.
LEO Tipperary Training Programme
Local Enterprise Office Tipperary continues to support local businesses, providing online training across October and November. The programme will be delivered online through Webinars and Zoom, across a number of topics such as I.T. Training, Social Media, and Starting Your Own Business. Book online to guarantee your place via https://www.localenterprise.ie/Tipperary/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/.
Tipperary County Development Plan
Submissions to the county development plan 2022-2028 are now open and encouraged for those interested in tourism development in the county. The pre-draft consultation is open and to be submitted via email at [email protected]. Keep up-to-date on the plan process at www.tipperarycoco.ie/cpd and on Twitter @planningtipp. For more, visit https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/be0cb-tourism-recovery-plan-2020-2023/.
The Fáilte Ireland COVID-19 Business Support Hub
Visit the Fáilte Ireland online COVID-19 Business Support Hub. Fáilte Ireland has made resources available to the tourism industry, to aid businesses navigate through these challenging times.
Looking for Yoga inspiration with a twist?
Caroline Conroy of Yoga Walks Ireland offers amazing yoga walks around the most beautiful locations within Munster Vales. Take a little time out and discover a rejuvenating experience taking in the scenic landscape. For Halloween, Yoga Walks Ireland are holding a Full Moon Yoga Walk on Friday 30th October comprising of gentle yoga, meditations, old Celtic rituals and ceremonies. Book directly with Caroline through 087 1220116.
War of Independence Podcast Series
The Tipperary Museum of Hidden History is delighted to share its 8th Annual Lecture Series which will run from October 2020 to April 2021. Given the latest restrictions, the lectures are presented in a podcast format. The focus of this year’s series is on The War of Independence in Ireland, with particular reference to Tipperary. Click here to view the series.
Contact
We want to continue to support tourism related businesses and communities across Munster Vales at this difficult time. If you have any queries please reach out and we will do our best for you. If you would like to share any information or images in this newsletter please email details to [email protected].
