Vol. 251 No. 2
andMr. G. Lynch asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will detail the steps being taken by Bord Fáilte to ensure that during the season 1971 there will be a recovery in the tourist industry and so prevent a repetition of the fall-off evident in 1970.
20.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power what the likely prospects are for the 1971 tourist season.
21.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power the reason for the delay in making available to Bord Fáilte the extra funds for marketing purposes which he publicly undertook to provide in October, 1970; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 19, 20 and 21.
In the course of a reply on 29th October, 1970, to questions in relation to tourism in 1971, I explained to the House that Bord Fáilte were preparing an intensified marketing, promotional and publicity campaign with the object of increasing tourist traffic to Ireland. This special campaign, which is taking the form of increased advertising and public relations activity supported by travel trade promotions and servicing in all markets, is now well under way and will be completed as planned. I am informed by Bord Fáilte that they are optimistic that the campaign will be successful and that it will lead to a significant improvement in tourist revenue in 1971. I would consider, however, that it is too early yet to make a specific forecast in regard to tourism revenue in 1971.
I will be introducing in the House at an early date the necessary financial provisions in relation to funds for the special campaign.
It is not a fact that there is evidence already to indicate that 1971 will be a difficult tourist season for us and that the factors which were there last year are very much in evidence again this year? Is it not a fact that without an intensive promotional, publicity campaign, more intensive than that being carried on at present, the possibility of increasing tourism in 1971 above 1970 is very remote?
The Government intend to place adequate funds at the disposal of Bord Fáilte to enable them to continue their promotional campaign. The Government will be recommending to the House a Token Estimate for additional aid for tourism. I gather the Minister for Transport and Power is satisfied that the amount to be made available will result in an improvement in the tourist position, an increase in the people who come here. The Deputy will have adequate opportunity to discuss this when the token Estimate comes before the House.
Is it not this threat of internment that lies over us——
This is a separate question. We cannot have a discussion on it. It is a matter for another Minister.
Is that not the biggest obstacle?
Like the Deputy, I would think it far more important than anything else to maintain internal order in this country.
