David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the debate and I welcome the Minister, who is clear and efficient, and prepared to take practical measures. One aspect that needs to be emphasised and has been emphasised by other speakers, particularly Senator Ó Murchú, is the cultural dimension because cultural tourism is one of the most important drivers of the tourism industry. I am not downplaying golf, even though it is a game in which I have very little interest, and it is a very big earner. However, it would be a pity if this island were turned into one enormous golf course. We have quite enough of them already with a fair amount of support from various groups.

I am not prepared to be cynical about The Gathering, but we also need to be clear-headed. I do not agree with those who appeared to give the impression in the earlier part of the debate that it does not matter, that it is smoke and mirrors and as long as we get the people here that is all we need. Perhaps I misunderstood it because there is that view and I thought it was reflected here. It does matter because we must give them a good experience.