Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I received a great welcome at Ireland West Airport in Knock. I was very impressed by its plans for the year and the number of aeroplanes that will fly to the west from various European countries. This is the first time the airport has had such large numbers arriving. Clearly, it is gearing up for a huge increase in the number of tourists from the Continent this year. I mention this because when talking about creating jobs and solving the unemployment problem, there is nowhere in which this can be done quicker than in the hospitality business. Tourism offers, possibly, the one chance we have left. Perhaps the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Leo Varadkar, might be invited to the House for a debate on tourism. It is something we can do immediately; it does not take a long time to develop the business. I realise the Government's heart is in the right place and that it is committed to the industry. The steps it took with regard to value added tax, VAT, were in the right direction, but the industry is always under threat. The Government could decide, however, that it was a one-off measure and put the rate back up again. We have a chance to do something about tourism and should debate the issue in the House, as it would be worthwhile. If we wish to use this House to best advantage, we must ensure time is allocated for a debate on tourism.