Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There is no doubt that Ireland provides good value in hotels. That is good for the product, the market and the country. However, there is a problem in regard to special events. I have called in the Irish Hotels Federation in that regard. Again we have to put on the green jersey. I am not saying the hotels cannot increase their prices for special events. They can, but those prices must be reasonable. It is not good for the perception of the industry or the hotels that prices are increased for special events.. We had the same problem during the Europa Cup and during major events in the country in the past year. To be fair to the hotels, many are under extreme pressure and are working within very tight margins. That some are competing with NAMA hotels is causing a serious problem. The family-run hotels work hard and their cost base is at a very low level. They work hard at getting people into the country.

Senator Feargal Quinn mentioned the strategic plan. I am pleased to inform him that the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Leo Varadkar, is today launching with Tourism Ireland a new marketing plan with new ways of doing business. I will come back to the House for a debate on tourism. In regard to the new way of doing business-----