Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Lowry. I confirm that the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Coveney, has just left the House to attend a meeting with representatives of the hospitality sector to discuss what we accept are increasing costs. Many of these are down to market issues, be they energy or interest rates. We accept that correct Government decisions to increase the minimum wage and access to sick pay come with a cost to employers. We are looking at all options and will continue to engage with the sector at this pressing time. No closure is a good closure. We want to make sure we can keep viable businesses in the sector open. I will continue to discuss the matter with the Deputy.

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