Catherine Martin, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, has announced the start of the selection process to pick six Irish towns or cities to take part in the new Night-Time Economy pilot programme. The venture – which includes the appointment of Night-Time Economy advisors in each of the selected towns or cities – aims to help boost the night-time economy and promote an eclectic, vibrant night-time culture.
Minister Martin said: “The establishment of Night-Time advisors in the six pilot towns and cities will be a significant step towards securing a vibrant and, importantly, a more sustainable night-time culture for all our citizens. This is in direct response to an action in the Report of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce which I published last year. The Taskforce explored ways in which we could promote a thriving, inclusive and diverse Night-Time Economy. It is crucial now that we follow up on their recommendations and act on them to create and support opportunities for audiences, venues, businesses and performers.”
Ann Marie Farrelly, Chair of the CCMA BEIUER (Business, Enterprise, Innovation, Urban/Town Economic Renewal) Committee and member of the Night-Time Recovery Taskforce welcomed the progress made. She said she “looks forward to some innovative and exciting pilot projects across the country, which will be developed in partnership with key local stakeholders”.
The Minister has committed funding for a two-year period to support the recruitment of the Night-Time Advisors for each of the chosen areas. The process is being led by the City and County Managers Association (CCMA), which recently issued the call to all local authorities to apply for funding to establish the role in their town or city. Applications close on 24 June, 2022. The chosen cities or towns will be announced this summer.
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