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.