Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A pressing concern that is affecting the heart of our tourism and hospitality sector in Mayo and beyond is an acknowledgment of the pivotal role the sector has played in supporting our communities and the State's humanitarian effort, especially in response to the Ukrainian crisis. As we know, approximately 30,000 beds, of which 25,000 are hotel beds, have been taken out of circulation to accommodate refugees under the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. While we stand in solidarity with those efforts, we cannot ignore the economic repercussions this displacement has had on our tourism sector, particularly in regions like Mayo where occupancy rates are traditionally high. Recent analysis revealed that in counties like Offaly, Mayo, Leitrim, Meath and Clare, the impact of this displacement is significant, with more than 20% of registered tourism accommodation now unavailable. While I am pleased that the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media has secured funding in budget 2024 of up to €10 million to support businesses facing trading challenges in these regions, the situation raises important questions. I would like clarification from the Taoiseach on the measures the Government intends to implement to support downstream businesses affected by this displacement, which is evident from the comprehensive approach that is being taken by Fáilte Ireland in engaging with these companies. It is really important that we support them as best we can to ensure they have sustainable tourism into the future and these regions are not negatively impacted.

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