Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Many Senators campaigned vigorously for the retention of the 9% VAT rate in the hospitality sector. The Minister for Finance agreed to our request and retained it. However, it is now time for the sector to play ball with the Government. For example, on the night of the Garth Brooks concerts, a hotel not far from Leinster House has raised the price of a double room from €149 to €299. While I know hotels will take advantage of the demand for rooms, they should not be exploiting these events. These are our own people, coming from all over Ireland for the Garth Brooks concert. It is expensive enough with train fares, food and concert tickets, not to have to pay double the price for a hotel room. In a way, these hotels are cutting off their nose to spite their face. If they kept prices down, people might decide to stay an extra night. Will the Irish Hotels Federation speak to its members and ensure they do not exploit people at times when there is a demand for rooms? Will the Leader ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to attend the House so we can hear his views on this?