Ruairí Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

In the last while, we have engaged on solving the huge issue with public liability insurance that has impacted on hospitality and, in particular, tourism and what we would call adventure tourism. It goes without saying that issue is impacting the cost of business.

I agree with what my colleagues have said. We need a review of the VAT rate to assess the implications for our entire tourism offering. We know the huge issues that SMEs are facing across the board, so we need to look at the introduction of a targeted PRSI rebate support scheme to support those SMEs.

Deputy Munster referred to the chaotic way in which the Government has dealt with IP applications and how it has relied on the private sector. A large number of the sites in question are not suitable and have created issues. The loss of beds in the D Hotel and other hotels has had an impact, and will impact where we go into the future. That needs to be rectified alongside the streamlining of the system.

I could not mention tourism in County Louth without referring to the Narrow Water bridge. The sooner it is delivered, the better. We just need to make sure it comes in on price and on time. Antóin Watters and Fiona Mhic Conchoille would not forgive me if I did not mention that project. I also mention Pádraig Cumiskey and people involved in historic tours around Dundalk. There needs to be an engagement with Louth County Council. We are doing a bit of work around that. That is everything from the time of Cú Chulainn, back when Louth could field really good hurlers, up to the modern age. I also mention the Poc Fada. Louth County Council is engaging with Poc Fada and also with residents to ensure we have something that is brilliant and sustainable, and that we can improve in the future.

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