Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

One of the biggest challenges facing us over the next number of years is Brexit. One of the industries that could be most affected is tourism. I know from speaking to business owners in north County Louth, and in particular Carlingford and the surrounding areas, that there is a fear that not enough is being done for this industry. I note from the Estimates that Fáilte Ireland's budget will remain the same as for 2016 and that the Tourism Ireland budget remains at €14 million. I note also that the tourism marketing fund remains unchanged at €35 million. I am disappointed by this as we should be enhancing the budget for these agencies to assist them in dealing with the threat of Brexit. We have not done enough and need to increase these budgets in the context of the uncertainty of Brexit. I would welcome a response from the Minister on those issues.