Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I again commend communities the length and breadth of the country on giving that céad míle fáilte to those fleeing from such horrific circumstances. While people always have a right to peaceful protest, those fleeing such horrific circumstances also have a very much equal right to peacefully adapt to their new communities, where they are seeking refuge.

On the Deputy's concerns, if we look back to what we did during the Covid pandemic, such as the continuity supports we put in for strategic tourism businesses, there are potential measures we need to consider, if the evidence is clear that there is a loss of tourism footfall in specific areas that is leading to significant reductions in trade and turnover. As I said, there is already anecdotal evidence that this is happening, which is my concern. Other levers that could be considered include rate reliefs and targeted marketing campaigns to help drive additional footfall to the most affected parts of the country. We are very much aware of this issue. I have my concerns and a body of work is under way.

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