Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join other speakers in wishing the Cathaoirleach, all Members and staff a very happy, successful and healthy 2016. I agree with Senator Quinn's points about ways in which tourism numbers could be increased. We are all delighted that in 2015 Ireland had its best year ever in terms of tourism and we are on target for growth of 6% in 2016. We had 7.9 million visitors here in 2015 and they spent more than €4 billion, a huge sum.

However, there is a danger looming on the horizon, namely, price gouging to which the chairman of Fáilte Ireland recently referred. He said that Dublin prices present a danger and that the creeping upwards is unacceptable. The problem is principally manifested in Dublin and those Members of this House who hail from outside the Pale have become aware of it over the past year. This is an issue which we must watch closely. Fáilte Ireland has been very successful with its promotion of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Ancient East, conference business and so forth.I am delighted to hear it is spending more and promoting that further. We have been very lucky with our zero tax on travel, the 9% VAT in the hospitality area, the strength of the dollar and sterling and the strong exchange rate. By and large, we have provided good value for money. However, if prices continue to rise unacceptably, particularly in our capital city, the current Government or the next will have to review the 9% tax rate, which would be unfortunate for tourism.