asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he has examined the feasibility of introducing some form of price concessions for tourists in respect of petrol and other commodities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tourist Price Concessions.
10.
Mr. O'Donnell
Bord Fáilte and I are very conscious of the need to take all possible steps to ensure the competitiveness of holidays in Ireland. A number of proposals for tax concessions, including a tax remission on petrol for foreign tourists, which would have some impact on tourism growth, were examined from time to time but it was decided that, apart from serious administrative difficulties, these proposals would not represent the best use of public moneys available for the development of the tourist industry. At present the possibility of duty free facilities on cross-Channel passenger routes is under active consideration.
Mr. O'Donnell
Can I take it that the Minister is aware of the fact that the high cost of commodities such as petrol and drink are being held up as having serious adverse effects on the whole tourist industry? I am sure the Minister is aware of that and I am sure he will agree that it might be desirable to explore every possibility in this respect.
I would not accept that the price of these commodities has this effect.
Mr. O'Donnell
They are having a serious effect.
I do not accept what the Deputy says with regard to prices. Certainly the most practical thing we can do is the duty free facilities for people coming here from Britain and this is being actively examined at the moment.
Is it cheap transport arrangements the Minister is talking about?
I do not think the Deputy is tuned in.