Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Senator Barrett referred to the G8 summit taking place on Lough Erne next week. This is a wonderful opportunity for Ireland and I agree entirely that it was Prime Minister Cameron who arranged for it to take place in Ireland, in Northern Ireland, and close to the Border. We could do with a debate on tourism. Senator Mooney has often talked about the opportunity to have a debate on tourism. There are significant opportunities in this sector.

Travelling through Dublin Port recently, I noted with interest that of the 100 cruise ships that will visit Dublin this year, 30 will pass through the East Link bridge and sail 340 m further into the city. This will enable passengers to walk from the dockside into the city centre. Some 4,000 people work in Dublin Port and a new service is operating twice daily between Howth and Dún Laoghaire. These developments are a reminder of how much we can do ourselves. Tourism offers substantial economic and employment opportunities. The Government's role is to provide encouragement, open doors and remove barriers or bureaucracy where it impedes the realisation of these opportunities.

Barriers to genetically modified foods could also be removed. The Seanad has not debated this issue for a significant period, during which changes have taken place in this area. If we do not avail of the major opportunities presented by genetically modified foods, we run the danger of being left behind by other European countries. Some other states have taken steps to embrace this technology which is being developed around the world.

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on tourism as quickly as possible. We should also have a debate on genetically modified foods to allow Senators to hear both sides of the argument. Ireland has opportunities to develop business.