The Hospitality Industry

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Economy – in the Senedd at 2:20 pm on 7 July 2021.

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Photo of Huw Irranca-Davies Huw Irranca-Davies Labour 2:20, 7 July 2021

I know, Minister, that one of the most welcome parts of financial support to hospitality providers in Ogmore has been the COVID-19 outdoor improvements recovery fund, and its benefits are going to be felt long beyond the pandemic. When hospitality shifted outside and COVID restrictions were firmly in place, grants of up to £10,000 were made available to cover 80 per cent of the costs of business adaptation across Wales. So, a dozen sports and social clubs across my area, from Pencoed to Heol-y-Cyw, to Maesteg and right across the piece, but also cafes and restaurants and bars, from Blaenogwr to Bryncethin, Bettws to Blackmill, Llanharan to Llangeinor and Llangynwyd, they all took advantage of that grant and they've produced fantastic outdoor provision now.

So, will the Minister, during the summer, take the time and accept my invitation to visit one or more of these hostelries with me during the summer, share a pint, chat with the staff and the owners about the help they've had, but also what more they might need in the months ahead, after such challenging times? And just to reassure the Minister, if he takes my invitation up, I will buy the first pint. [Laughter.]