Responding to a parliamentary question, tourism minister Lex Delles (DP) said in total 730,096 €50 vouchers were issued to residents and cross-border workers aged 16 and over. Of that number, 67,518 were used by 26 October.

Commenting on the initiative, Delles said that it brought a boost in local tourism. Campsites recorded a 57% increase in resident custom and hotels a 33% boost. Delles added that the scheme also had a knock-on effect for local businesses, such as restaurants and shops.

The sector has been severely hit by measures to curb the pandemic. Delles said this is why the relaunch and solidarity fund created for hospitality, events and tourism businesses would be extended until 2021.

“In addition, a new direct aid should be put in place with which companies from vulnerable industries can be reimbursed part of their costs,” he said.

For this reason, there were no plans to distribute the equivalent finances in unused vouchers to just hotels. Instead the government would target businesses in highly affected sectors in the grip of financial ruin.