asked the Minister for Transport and Power if his attention has been directed to a report concerning the level of hotel prices in this country and the effect of these on the tourist trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hotel Prices.
9.
I have seen the report referred to by the Deputy and I have also seen a subsequent article by the same author commenting favourably on the premises and food in certain named hotels and also on the prices which are described as "good value", "very fair" and "excellent value".
Hotel tariffs are fixed by the individual hotel managements and these tariffs are quoted in the Official Guide to Hotels which is published annually by Bord Fáilte. The Board's powers under the Tourist Traffic Acts are limited to ensuring that the prices quoted in the Official Guide are not exceeded.
I am very greatly concerned at price increases in any sector of the tourist industry which could tend to offset the present intensive campaign to increase tourist traffic. I am aware, however, that hoteliers, in common with other sections of the community, have had to face increased costs in the past year. Some hoteliers have absorbed these increases and they deserve to be commended. Some other hotelier would, however, seem to have increased their prices more than can reasonably be justified and I am examining the position to see whether any action can be taken towards halting this trend, though I do not consider that price control as such would be practicable.
I am sure that the hotel industry generally realise that excessive charges would result in eventual loss to themselves and to the tourist industry generally through the diversion of tourist traffic to other markets offering better value for money.
International tourism is highly competitive and many countries are in a position to offer better holiday weather and a greater range of organised entertainments than we can. It is essential, therefore, if we are to maintain our foothold in the international market, that our charges for services be held at a level that will represent good value for money and be sufficiently attractive to encourage tourists to visit us and to make return visits.
Hoteliers faced with the difficult problem of rising costs would do well to explore—possibly on a joint basis —the means of extending the season and of achieving higher annual occupancy rates. They could also consider whether their premises would lend themselves to more efficient and economic operation through the adoption of modern methods and equipment. I can assure them of the full support and co-operation of Bord Fáilte in any measures they may adopt for the purpose.