Tourism Minister warns Ryder Cup rip-off merchants

Rip-off Ireland has been warned that it faces the full wrath of the law if it tries to cash in on the Ryder Cup, Sports and Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue said today.

The Government has also cautioned the consumer affairs watchdog to be on alert for unscrupulous traders exploiting visitors during the three-day international golf tournament which is expected to attract 40,000 people each day.

Minister O’Donoghue said the tourism industry has been told the event – which is being used to showcase the country worldwide – was a unique opportunity that should not be squandered by greed.

“We have been in contact with the Director of Consumer Affairs who will be watching pricing very, very carefully and who will impose any sanctions that require to be imposed,” he said.

“Within the hotel sector, of course, there are maximum prices which hotels can charge and they can go up to those maximum prices but they may not go beyond them.”

Most people recognise prices need to be competitive, particularly with increasing numbers opting to holiday in cheaper destinations in Eastern European countries. But there will be a minority who will act in their own selfish interests, the minister suggested.

“You will always have some people who just won’t play by the rules, you will always have some people who just won’t act in the national interest. The majority will,” he said.

Mr O’Donoghue revealed €4.5m of taxpayers’ money has been given to Failte Ireland to promote the country during the tournament.

He refused to give a direct assurance that year-long roadworks on the N7 – the main artery into event in Straffan, Co Kildare – will be completed in time for the event’s opening on September 22.

“I’m quite satisfied that there won’t be any difficulty like that and I feel absolutely sure that the people of Straffan will benefit enormously from the new roads long after the event has passed just as the Irish economy will benefit long after the event has passed,” he said.

“The assurance that I will give, as Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism, is that everything that facilitates the Ryder Cup, which requires to be done to facilitate the hosting of the Ryder Cup will be done,” he added.