Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
131. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether hotels-bed and breakfasts and so on should not increase the cost of their rooms by significant amounts when there are major events been held in a particular city or region. [7736/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the Tourist Traffic Acts, approved accommodation providers are obliged to display their registered charges in bedrooms. The upper and lower limits on accommodation charges are set by the accommodation provider who can also set charges for a number of time periods. If a guest is charged more than the relevant upper limit there is a formal complaint process administered by Fáilte Ireland and if the applicant is successful in their complaint, the overcharge has to be refunded.
I am aware that concerns have been expressed about increases in accommodation prices in the context of major events taking place in a particular location. Hotels and other accommodation providers operate in a competitive market and increases in rates at times of high demand are to be expected. Similarly, at times of low demand, rates will be suppressed. Indeed, according to the 2013 Hotels.com Price Index Ireland has the lowest hotel prices in Western Europe.
Ultimately, it is a matter for the consumer whether the price for a hotel room at a given time, like any other purchase, is acceptable. If it is not, they will take their custom elsewhere.
However, while I am not in favour of enforcing price controls in general, I believe that tourism businesses must continue to provide value for money and recognise the need not to exploit their customers for short-term advantage at the expense of their reputation and long term future.
