Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We all understand the situation in Dublin and in many urban centres where hotel prices have gone out of the reach of many people who wish to stay in them. However, tourism in the north west was down 16% last year, so there are parts of the country where there are problems. We recognise that it cannot be applied geographically and must be applied across the board. Therefore, it is appropriate to increase it to 13.5% for the hotel sector, but we believe 11% is far enough for the restaurant and other sectors. The Government needs to examine the areas that are under stress, particularly the Border counties where there are problems due to Brexit. It must provide more funding there and, perhaps, consider a means of providing for a break for hotels in other areas, particularly through local authority rates. That could be considered later in the Finance Bill. It must be addressed.

Fianna Fáil must step up to the mark on this. Its Members cannot continue to hide behind the blue button.

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