Minister for Tourism Martin Cullen was overruled at Cabinet about ending the airport departure tax because of the income it generated, the Dáil has heard.

Pressed by the Opposition about the 10 tax, Mr Cullen said he discussed it at Cabinet. “Judgment calls had to be made in an effort to maintain the tourism budget or even enhance it.

“I was not successful in winning the argument as it involves a substantial stream of revenue.”

Labour spokeswoman Mary Upton said a number of countries had reversed the tax because it cost them more than it brought in.