Ryder Cup rip-off - Don’t let greed ruin opportunity

UNUSUALLY for the representative of another country here, US Ambassador James Kenny has warned against an outbreak of what, realistically, would be the ‘rip-off Ireland’ syndrome during the Ryder Cup golf event next month.

Although he expressed concern only about American visitors, the point has not been lost on the Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue.

He took the opportunity when announcing a e10 million advertising campaign to attract golfing tourists from Britain, Europe and the US for the event, to appeal for common sense among service providers in the tourism and hospitality industries.

He might, like the ambassador, have referred to golf clubs, some of which have doubled their fees during the Ryder Cup, and for the summer, just because the event is being held here.

The minister is completely right, because the Ryder Cup will attract about 40,000 people a day over the three-day event and will also attract incredible global media attention.

It is a unique occasion to showcase the country at its best and should not be seen as an opportunity by quick-buck merchants, more concerned about what they can make, rather than the image of the country.