asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state what steps are being taken, or will be taken, to replace the hotel demolished on the Córas Iompair Éireann property at Glengarriff in 1945; and whether, in view of (a) the popularity of Glengarriff as a tourist centre, (b) the serious inadequacy of hotel accommodation there during the season, and (c) the employment which would be afforded locally by a modern hotel, he will give an assurance that an hotel will be erected without delay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Glengarriff Hotel Accommodation.
Mr. Murphy
I am informed by Córas Iompair Éireann that no steps are being taken, or are contemplated, by them for the building of an hotel on the property of the company at Glengarriff. The company will, however, be prepared to negotiate for the sale of the property to any parties who may wish to acquire it. It is the policy of the Government that the State should not directly engage in the hotel business and, consequently, I cannot give any assurance such as that sought by the Deputy in the last part of his question.
I am to add that an examination is in progress into the measures to be adopted for the advancement of the tourist industry and, amongst other matters, consideration is being given to the most appropriate action which can be taken to secure that hotel accommodation will be improved and extended at any centre where the need arises.
Would the Minister consider the advisability of consulting the new chairman of Córas Iompair Éireann for the purpose of getting them to reopen some of the hotels and refreshment rooms closed by the last régime?
(Interruptions).
I wonder if the occupants of the two Front Benches want these questions considered, or are they to cease now?