Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Bed and breakfast establishments were excellent as part of the tourism product because they provided a different experience. Now, they are finding the market difficult because hotel prices have come down. Could we not look after the bureaucracy by which bed and breakfast establishment owners must pay all of the increased charges to keep their establishments open? Some 40% of bed and breakfast establishments must have closed in the last two years. If they close, they will not reopen and we will need them in the future.

I wish the Minister of State well. I agree with Senator Feargal Quinn that the Minister of State is the bubbly and energetic person we need. We have excellent infrastructure and officials. It is clear that the Government is focused on sustaining what we have, in which regard I wish the Minister of State the best of luck.