Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

That is the one issue we need to address. It is a matter of education, common sense and common decency.

We talk a great deal about the weather but I believe we can have a year-round product in this country. We undersell ourselves; one can carry out nearly any sport or pastime, including walking, fishing and golf all year around. I did not realise that the Gulf Stream made such a difference to the climate. We have a moderate climate in Ireland. When one goes to central and eastern Europe and such places as northern Germany, Russia and Poland, the tourism season is restricted because it is so cold. I do not believe the weather is a great factor in the tourist industry here.

There is something seriously wrong if the number of people indulging in activity holidays such as fishing, walking, golf and cruiser hire is decreasing. Why is the number falling when we are getting much more fitness-oriented and into activity holidays?