A Local TD hopes there will be some flexibility for local authorities to take advantage of a new grants scheme to provide outdoor spaces for the public
The government this week announced plans to offer grants for eateries and pubs to develop outdoor seating in efforts to allow them trade later this year amid the pandemic.
Local authorities can avail of funding up to €200,000 as part of the Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme to develop outdoor seating in at least two locations.
Longford-Westmeath Td Joe Flaherty is hopeful that the outdoor pans will help tourism back on its feet after a very difficult 12 months
He feels there is scope to expand the scheme in local areas: