Brian Brennan (Wicklow-Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Regarding Irish tourism, I am concerned about the figures that have come out for March. The number of inbound travellers is down and I would like to know what plan is in place to reverse this downward trend. The programme for Government clearly states a commitment to growing the tourism industry and I ask for strong action to support this growth. It is imperative that, as a Government, we continue to develop the offering of Ireland as an international tourism destination.

Last week, an individual went on worldwide media and claimed many things, including a ridiculous and untrue statement that County Wexford had no hotel beds available. This type of misinformation is damaging to our tourism industry and, in turn, could impact employment. I have no interest in this individual but my concern is the vast audience he is speaking to. I would like to put on the record that County Wexford has 1,000 hotel bedrooms available nightly and Wexford is open for business.

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