Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is concern among people regarding the VAT rate for tourism. Dublin might not need it, as evidenced by the huge increase in the rates for hotel rooms here. I admit that there are not enough hotel rooms in Dublin and I hope there will be expansion in that regard with another building programme. I am concerned with Ireland beyond the Pale. I ask the Leader to use his good offices to make representations to the Minister for Finance on this matter. If it can be afforded, I hope the Minister will be able to ensure, in the context of the forthcoming budget, that the VAT rate to which I refer will remain in place. It is very important for the future of tourism.

I do not want to refer to Brexit; we will wait to see how matters turn out on Thursday. I would hate to think what would happen to tourism if the British left the EU. The value of sterling would decrease - they are getting great value here at present. We know what would happen otherwise. I hope Britain will remain.