Mr. Aidan Pender:

The issue relating to interplay between the hotel and the guesthouse and bed and breakfast sectors can be quite complex. For example, overseas consumers might not be clear about the difference between a hotel and a guesthouse. In other words, terminology can get in the way. A number of interesting aspects arise in the context of the bed and breakfast sector. The value available in the hotel sector has had an impact on the bed and breakfast sector. However, it has also prompted some soul-searching among those in the latter sector in the context of identifying their niche in order that they might compete. We have done a great deal of work with the bed and breakfast sector in the past four years. This was prompted, in no small part, by the excess stock. The latter has encouraged other sectors to consider how they might survive the difficult years while the position relating to accommodation is adjusting and while a measure of equilibrium is being restored. It is interesting that in response bed and breakfast establishments are marketing themselves as an Irish home or Irish family experience. There is a difference between saying a person can avail of bed and breakfast and obtain an Irish family experience.