James Heffernan (Labour)

In my constituency there is the mystical Lough Gur and Ballyhoura mountain bike trails. There are also various festivals taking place in many towns and villages throughout the country. I could go on but it is vital we use this resource as best we can, getting the best return from it, especially given our current economic position. This summer I travelled a good deal of the country and I echo what previous speakers have said, particularly with regard to the VAT rate. I know the hotel and restaurant federations have asked that the savings be passed to the customer but I am not sure if that is happening to a significant extent. The issue should be considered again for enforcement purposes.

I congratulate the Minister of State for bringing this Bill before the House and although funding may not be readily available, this Bill will allow the Government, when the time comes, to invest in the tourism infrastructure. I support the Bill's passage through the House.