Feargal Quinn (Independent)

For the first time in many years, fewer tourists have travelled to the Republic of Ireland from Great Britain, while the number travelling to Northern Ireland has increased. Approximately 140,000 jobs are at stake in the tourism industry. Have we taken our eye off the ball? Almost 20 years ago in 1985, I attempted to bring a large group to Ireland, but was told it could not come because we did not have a national conference centre. I was delighted to hear the Minister say yesterday that it is hoped to have one by 2008. The conference industry is an enormously valuable business for Ireland. Will the Minister come to the House to tell us what he is doing about it? Clearly, we are not adhering to the policies and do not have the strength and commitment we should have.