To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the support available to owners of self-catering accommodation who have seen reductions in business due to Executive regulations, in particular the essential travel only element of the COVID-19 regulations.

The travel industry has been impacted particularly hard by COVID-19, both locally and on a global scale.

Under current regulations and associated restrictions, which came into effect on 26th December 2020, self-catering businesses are required to close, except in a very limited number of scenarios. As such, they may be eligible for either the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme or the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme, depending on their particular circumstances.

The Executive has also allocated £4.1 million to support Bed & Breakfast, Guest House and Guest Accommodation providers. My Department is working with Tourism NI to develop this targeted financial support scheme, which will come into effect before the end of January 2021.

It will be for the Executive to collectively decide on how any additional financial resources should be allocated, including those aimed at supporting local businesses and the wider economy.