Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's first point regarded the air travel tax, which I raised in budget discussions with the Minister for Finance and my colleagues. Judgment calls had to be made in an effort to maintain the tourism budget or even enhance it. I was not successful in winning the argument as it involves a substantial stream of revenue.

It is very hard to quantify in real terms the impact of the tax. I have spoken to tour operators abroad who have told me the tax has not had a significant impact.

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