Eoghan O'Mara Walsh: Tourism safety net can't be removed

St Patrick's Day ought to have signalled a return to normality — but war, inflation, and labour shortages mean that the tourism sector cannot absorb the planned Vat hike

The return of St Patrick's Day events (in this case in London) seemed to offer hope for a return to normality but further challenges face Ireland's tourism sector. Picture: Stephen Chung/LNP/Shutterstock

St Patrick’s Day traditionally heralds the start of the Irish tourism season.

Very few countries worldwide can claim a day or own a colour as their own but Ireland certainly does both as our national holiday is celebrated worldwide.