Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I am glad to have the opportunity to speak to this motion and I compliment our spokesperson, Deputy Olivia Mitchell, on bringing it before the Dáil. As the previous speaker, Deputy Tom Hayes, has noted, tourism is a very important product in this country. I come from Westport which is one of the most beautiful towns in the country and it is very much dependent on tourism.

The tourism sector is extremely important in the context of job creation. Many people in Westport depend on tourism. In that context, we should be considering ways to attract more visitors to the country. By helping the economy to return to a position of growth, tourism is one of the industries that will assist us in emerging from the recession. However, those in the industry are going to require support. We will be obliged to consider ways in which we might attract increasing numbers of visitors.

The travel tax is outrageous. It is imposed on people leaving and entering the country. This tax is not necessary and more money is being lost than is being gained as a result of its imposition. Mr. O'Leary of Ryanair stated that he could encourage many more people to visit the country if the tax was not in place. In light of the small amount of money it brings in to the Exchequer, it is time the travel tax was abolished.

Some hotels open on a year-round basis. There are 11 hotels in Westport. These hotels cannot obtain the same price for their product in December as they can in August. As a result, they are obliged to reduce their prices. That is why the Government must re-examine the position with regard to the travel tax. It must also consider other ways in which the industry might be encouraged, assisted and supported. Those in the hotel industry want action to be taken with regard to the stealth taxes that apply in respect of their sector. The rates relating to hotels that open on a year-round basis will have to be reduced in the same way they are for hotels which close for three or four months of the year.

Tourism is an extremely important industry. I hope the Minister will lobby other members of the Cabinet, particularly the Minister for Finance, in respect of it. I wish her well in her new position. Despite what people state, hers is an important portfolio. Tourism is a vital industry which can create even further jobs. All those in it are seeking is some support and assistance from the Government in order that the jobs which already exist might be protected.

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