John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The legacy of the last Government is unfortunately still being felt. That was a time when the country was awash with money but no decision was made to benefit any business community. I have no doubt that the interaction involving business people will lead to collaboration that will benefit the region. I am from a business background and we cannot assume that it is good having 500 car parking spaces free of charge. I come from Sligo town, which does not have anything close to Howth Harbour's locational advantages or amenities but there is still paid parking, even in centres that are out of town. A reasonable charge would allow the State reinvest some of the money.

The Minister, Deputy Coveney, is open to any reasonable suggestion for a new parking regime. I assure the House that he will try to be fair to all users of the harbour while ensuring that everybody would pay a fair share. The day when the country was awash with money that could be thrown at everything is gone and a cost benefit has been carried out for this proposal.