The advent of the euro has allowed for more transparent pricing comparisons. This is placing Ireland's competitive position relative to other European tourist destinations under very real threat and highlights the need for macroeconomic policies designed to improve our international competitiveness and tackle inflation. In this regard, I commend the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for her commitment to addressing what seemed to be the ever escalating rise in the cost of insurance. While the impact of this has been felt far beyond the tourism sector, it has been an additional burden that many could have done without.