James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

I wish to refer to one observation that was brought to my attention during the meeting, which I think is quite interesting. Fáilte Ireland was asked about the cost of what it would take. The questions for somebody who is putting an Airbnb through the planning process are as follows whether they going for commercial planning, do they need full architectural drawings, do they need environmental impact assessments done, and do they need to pay engineering fees and any other fees for the change of use? Is there consideration by the Department or Fáilte Ireland in relation to Government support being given by the Department or Fáilte Ireland to support people with these costs? As we explained, one person's costs nearly exceeded €11,000 just in following those steps. It is a worthy observation but, unfortunately, we do not have time for an in-depth analysis. I just wanted to raise this matter with both of the bodies with us.

There are two people offering who want to join this meeting as guests. One is Deputy Danny Healy-Rae and the other is Deputy Rory Hearne. I call Deputy Healy-Rae. I ask them for serious co-operation in terms of time because we have to vacate this room shortly after 3 p.m. I suggest that each Deputy speaks for five minutes each, if that is okay.