Green TD – Steven Matthews, has welcomed the launch of the Night-Time Economy Pilot Programme. This follows a recommendation of the Report of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce and involves the appointment of Night-Time Economy Advisors in six towns and cities across Ireland. Speaking following the announcement from his Green Party colleague and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, Deputy Matthews said:
“I am delighted that applications for the Night-Time Economy Pilot Programme are now open. This is an important initiative which can revitalise the night-time economy following the Covid-19 pandemic and create new opportunities for audiences, venues, businesses, and performers. It will also help to bring life and vibrancy back to our town centres, in line with the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Town Centres First Policy. A Night-Time Economy Advisor will be appointed to liaise between the local authority and community representatives and assist the development of an action plan for the Night-Time Economy in each of the six towns and cities selected for the scheme.
“It is very welcome that Wicklow County Council will have the opportunity to apply for the Night-Time Economy Pilot Programme, which closes for applications on June 24th, 2022. I believe that there is strong potential to develop a thriving, sustainable and vibrant night-time economy in Wicklow. As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, this is the time to invest in our night-time cultural activities, entertainment, hospitality, festivals, and sport. It is important to take a collaborative approach that invites everyone in the community to participate and share their views on the design of a Night-Time Economy that caters for different ages and interests while creating a shared sense of community. I fully understand the concerns of some residents in relation to this proposal including potential antisocial behaviour issues and later licensing laws, and I am more than happy to work with them to ensure a fair outcome during this process.
“I look forward to the opportunity to engage with the local authority and offer any advice or support I can to potential applications to the Night-Time Economy Pilot Programme. I hope this is something that Wicklow County Council will seek to participate in. Separately, I am always happy to meet with residents/ groups to discuss their concerns and if there are any specific issues, I would encourage people to get in touch with me directly to discuss it”, concluded Deputy Matthews.
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