Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Harkin for raising the issue. I thank her and her colleagues for their relentless advocacy of tourism and business in Sligo and for the constructive approach they have taken on this. I am fully aware of the beautiful tourist sites in Sligo. Deputy Harkin mentioned Rosses Point in particular but she is right to say there are many others, including Knocknarea, Lough Gara and Enniscrone. I am a regular in Yeats country. There is also Mullaghmore and other beautiful places.

The Minister, Deputy Catherine Martin, is acutely conscious of the importance of the tourism sector, particularly on a regional basis. Tourism accommodation has a significant multiplier effect for other businesses in the wider area. The war in Ukraine, combined with the very high number of applicants for international protection, puts real pressure on the Government's ability to offer humanitarian accommodation. The people of Ireland have never seen so many arrive in such a short timeframe. We have welcomed the equivalent of the city of Galway in less than a year. The country has done a tremendous job collectively in doing what is the right thing but we are left dealing with the consequences of it and we trying to do it in the best possible way. Irish people have sought shelter and opportunities abroad and Ireland has a long tradition over history of helping nations in trouble. It is the right thing to do. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is availing of the wide range of offers of accommodation made to it. The Government is focused on continuing the support for those fleeing the war. It has agreed that there should be a move away from an emergency response to a more mainstreamed approach, including reduced reliance on serviced accommodation. There is now an increased focus on rapid-build housing and a new call for vacant homes led by local authorities.

The Minister consistently engages with, and takes on board, the views of the hospitality and tourism sectors, particularly with regard to the need to avoid a cliff edge and the supports that are needed. She continues to do so and she will take careful note of the comments that Deputy Harkin has made. I am very grateful for them.

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