Madam, – As a significant retailer in the tourism market, I would like to respond to Michael O’Leary’s challenge to the Government to dramatically increase tourist numbers into Ireland if it would abolish the €10 passenger tax by issuing my own challenge.
Two major problems face our industry: 1. Dwindling numbers visiting Ireland, 2. Decreasing spend from each tourist.
I totally agree with Mr O’Leary that the Government was short- sighted in introducing this stupid tax and its abolition will drive substantial extra numbers of tourists into the country.
However, short-sightedness is not reserved to the Government, as Ryanair’s equally stupid baggage policy has resulted in the tourist being unable to make purchases here to bring home.
The challenge to Mr O’Leary is to immediately increase the hand baggage allowance to 15kg.
Imagine the benefits to everyone if both sides compromised – not words but action – more tourists into the country, more income for Ryanair, more employment, a massive increase in revenue for businessess throughout Ireland and to the State exchequer! It should be a no-brainer for Mr O’Leary. – Yours, etc,