asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he can indicate how hotels are going to present their revised prices for publication following the turnover tax; and, if he considers that two and a half per cent will cover the matter in the brochure issued by An Bord Fáilte and in the lists published by them on behalf of hoteliers.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Hotel Charges.
21.
The publication of the official guide to hotels and guest houses is a statutory function of Bord Fáilte Éireann. The presentation of prices in the guide in the light of the application of the turnover tax is a matter for proprietors of hotels and guest houses. I am informed by Bord Fáilte that the bulk of the hotels and guest houses propose to present their prices inclusive of turnover tax. Where the prices are not inclusive of tax this will be indicated clearly in the guide.
Does the Minister not consider that the 2½ per cent turnover tax will cause a certain amount of confusion with regard to the prices now being published? Does he not consider there will be a further imposition than the 2½ per cent, and will he give an assurance that before the next tourist season he will go into the matter to ensure that the true and factual prices may be published by hotels and guest houses?
I have every assurance from Bord Fáilte that when the next Hotel Guide is published, the turnover tax will have to be indicated as being charged extra, unless it is included in the price.
Is there any legal obligation on the patrons of hotels to pay the tax, in view of the fact that the hotel proprietor is responsible for the tax, not the patron?
The turnover tax has to be paid in the usual way. Nobody has to stay in any hotel if he does not want to.
Am I to understand that the Minister and the Government do not care who pays the tax or what charge is made so long as they get their 2½ per cent?
No, nothing like that at all. Hotel prices here in comparison with those of other countries are very reasonable, and the Deputy's fears in that regard are without foundation.