Hello and welcome to my website.
A chara,
Our world has changed drastically over the last eight months. Covid-19 has impacted
each and every one of us. I would like to thank our frontline workers who have worked
tirelessly and selflessly throughout this pandemic and to all the community volunteers
who continue to care for the vulnerable and elderly.
In a time where we have been forced to stay apart, our community has come together
and made sure no one was left behind, and throughout this time of uncertainty, fear,
sacrifice and loss, we have shown strength, resilience and courage.
As we move into this next phase of living with Covid-19, we must continue to look after
each other, by supporting our communities and the local shops and businesses that
we are so lucky to have on our doorsteps.
It is a privilege to represent you in Dáil Éireann. It was an honour to have been appointed
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media upon the formation
of Government in June and I will do everything I can to fulfil this important role in our
community, society and country to the best of my ability.
Since my appointment, my priority has been to ensure that the sectors worst impacted
by this virus are supported and given the financial assistance that they need.
Ahead of Budget 2021, I engaged, listened and got to work on proposals from
stakeholders in those sectors about how best to support them. I secured significant
funding across my brief which will throw a much-needed lifeline to the arts and culture
sector, including a €50 million live entertainment support package encompassing
grants for school and college shows and dance and theatre society events. A decrease
in VAT from 13.5% to 9% was secured for businesses in the tourism and hospitality
sector and has come into effect since 1st November. The Sports Capitation Grant also
received further funding, allowing for a new round of grants to be allocated next year.
I will continue to do my utmost to represent the people and communities of Dublin
Rathdown once again placing climate and social justice at the heart of everything I do.
Finally, my thoughts and condolences are with anyone who has suffered a loss during
this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch at any stage if I can be of assistance.
Le gach dea-ghuí,

Dublin Rathdown
Catherine Martin T.D.