Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding accommodation websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4254/13]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have noted again the concerns expressed regarding the use of booking engines. I understand that over 62% of all international travel reservations are made using the internet and that is why Fáilte Ireland has a suite of supports available to accommodation providers to assist them in using the internet.  The purpose of these supports, which are very popular with accommodation providers, is to allow them to take maximum advantage of the market exposure afforded by the internet to drive business, including through their own websites and through social media.

The decision to use any particular booking engine or online travel agent is a commercial choice for the accommodation provider.  In this regard, accommodation providers need to take into account the commission rates on rooms sold and the market exposure and flow of business that a particular booking engine/online travel agent may deliver as against the cost of promoting their business directly. Fáilte Ireland does not promote any particular engine and merely provides the tools for businesses to make their own informed marketing and booking choice. The provision of business supports to individual businesses is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland and I have asked the agency to reply directly to the Deputy in regard to the specific circumstances outlined. If you do not receive a reply within ten working days please contact my private office.