Ministers to discuss specific Covid supports for hospitality sector
Senior Government ministers will meet later today to discuss the introduction of specific measures to support the hospitality sector.
The Cabinet Sub Committee on Economic Recovery will also consider the ongoing Covid supports amid continued concern about the rise in Covid case numbers and increasing pressure on hospitals.
The Government and its public health advisers have been reasserting the message for people to reduce their social contacts.
While that is believed to be having an effect, public health officials say the spread of Covid in the community is at a worrying level.
With further restrictions not ruled out, senior ministers will consider this evening whether to delay planned cuts to the wage subsidy scheme, along with measures for the hospitality and arts industries.
Rising inflation and the Pensions Commission report are also on the agenda.
Meanwhile, the National Public Health Emergency Team will meet again on Thursday. It will assess the latest data and whether further restrictions may be required.
The Cabinet Sub Committee on Economic Recovery is made up of the three coalition party leaders, the Social Protection Minister and the Culture minister.
Also today, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys is expected to announce a €3 million extension to the Hot School Meals programme.
This will benefit up to 16,000 primary school pupils in 81 DEIS schools.
