Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was concerned to read in this morning's edition of The Irish Timesthat, according to recent Red C research, Britons who intended on holidaying in Ireland would be staying for considerably shorter periods and spending much less money. That surprised me. According to Tourism Ireland, 40% of our overseas visitors come from our neighbouring nation and, with the inevitable fluctuations in currencies, that 40% will now be more inclined to holiday within the UK as opposed to Ireland. This will have a knock-on effect on tourists from the Continent and further afield who may opt for UK destinations instead.

During the past six years, the Government has met with unparalleled success in promoting Ireland as a tourism destination. In particular, 2016 was a fantastic year, with our 8.9 million overseas visitors representing an increase of 11%. However, Brexit presents the greatest challenge to our tourism success story. The tourism sector could quickly find that its foundations are built on quicksand if we do not continue to prove an attractive and competitive place for holidaymakers.

It would be prudent if the Leader arranged for the Minister to attend the House in early course and outline the Government's strategy for promoting Irish tourism, with specific regard to the Brexit fallout.