Representatives of the hospitality sector say that Sinn Féin’s tax proposals would cause ‘devastation’ to their industry, says Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Patrick O’Donovan. Deputy O’Donovan was speaking after a session of the Oireachtas Transport and Communications Committee, attended by the Irish Hotels Federation and the Drinks Industry Group Ireland.

“Finding your feet in a new country can be extremely difficult. Emigrants can suffer from severe loneliness and depression, and it is important that the support they need is available” says Dan Neville, Fine Gael TD for Limerick and President of the Irish Association of Suicidology.

Fine Gael Cork South West TD, Noel Harrington, has said that the provision of an additional €850,000 for Fáilte Ireland, much of which will be invested in developing the web presence of the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW), is great news for tourism in West Cork.

“A new Business Development Group (BDG) has been established to find new opportunities for local post offices which are at the centre of our communities” says Peter Fitzpatrick.

Fine Gael Waterford Minister Paudie Coffey has welcomed the news from Failte Ireland that it will be putting a major focus on the Viking Triangle in Waterford City next year as part of a new international product, that will brand the South-East of the Country as a heritage destination.

“We now have five months to plan for the marriage equality referendum and what will hopefully be a landmark day for social equality in this country”, says Fine Gael Cork South Central TD Jerry Buttimer. Deputy Buttimer was speaking after the announcement that the marriage equality referendum will take place next May.

Fine Gael Cork North Central Senator, Colm Burke, has welcomed the news that a new drug, Selincro Nalmefene, is to be made available here to treat alcohol dependency.

Frances Fitzgerald T.D., Minister for Justice and Equality, today welcomed the Government’s approval of her proposals to hold a referendum on Marriage Equality in May.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan, TD, today condemned the attack on a school in Pakistan and expressed his condolences to the families of victims.

“Another 100 Garda recruits will today (Monday), enter Templemore, joining the 100 who started training earlier this year,” says Áine Collins, Fine Gael Cork North West TD.