Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I concur with the comments of Senator Lombard in respect of Airbnb. It is an issue we have been skirting around for some time and it needs to be dealt with. A large number of hotels will struggle with occupancy levels as a result of the large number of Airbnbs. There is also the knock-on effect on the private rental market. It is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately.

The issue of the N4 was to the fore earlier in the year when we found out that funding to continue the consultation process was not put in place for 2022. I ask that the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, in particular ensure that funding is put in place for the project for 2023 and that it is actually brought through until planning permission is granted. There is not a significant cost involved in doing so. The significant cost comes when the capital works need to take place and land has to be purchased, etc. I ask that the project, which is vital for the entire north-west and midland regions, be prioritised and the funding guaranteed for 2023. We need to avoid a situation where the tap runs dry. I make that point in the context of the funding that was put in place this year. Funding needs to be put in place for 2023 and 2024 to bring the process through to identifying a route and getting planning permission. If we then have to wait until capital funding becomes available, that is fine. The money needs to be put in place for 2023 and 2024, however.