To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the process by which the current Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme was designed; and (ii) whether this included input from affected businesses.

The purpose of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme is to provide support to businesses impacted by the Health Protection Regulations who were unable to access the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme. Part B of the scheme includes those businesses in the supply chain, forced to close or severely limit their operations as a result of the increased Health Protection Regulations.

In developing the scheme, officials in my Department undertook engagement with representatives from the hospitality sector. The key aim of engagement was to determine the extent of the impact of business closures, as a result of the regulations, on the supply side.

The scheme, including payment structure and eligibility criteria, was agreed by the Executive ahead of launch.

The Department has continued to take on board feedback on the scheme following launch, from affected businesses and other interested parties, and has made amendments and enhanced communications where appropriate.