asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is satisfied that intending visitors to this country are aware of the tourist potential of the many monuments and shrines of great antiquity and archaeological beauty throughout the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Information on National Monuments.
4.
Much has been done in recent years to make intending visitors to Ireland aware of the large number of monuments of historical and archaeological interest throughout the country, through publicity in publications such as the Ireland Guide and the National Monuments Guide. Information of this nature is also publicised in each issue of Bord Fáilte's magazine Ireland of the Welcomes which has an estimated readership of over a quarter of a million and in other Bord Fáilte publications. Posters have been distributed in recent years illustrating the Book of Kells, the Cross of Moone, the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle. In addition, Bord Fáilte produced special leaflets in the past ten years featuring both archaeological monuments and places of religious interest.
Visiting publicists, including journalists, radio, TV and film producers are also made aware of this material and as a result there has been a considerable amount of publicity abroad in major magazines and in films and TV programmes.
Could the Minister indicate if this brochure covers all the monuments throughout the country, and if there is a map in association with it, so that people who come in here as tourists may know where to find these places?
Yes. The booklet National Monuments Guide does include a map which lists some 505 monuments here and some 25 in the Six Counties as well. I think the publicity is more than adequate, and people can obtain additional information if they require it. Then the regional tourist boards are also producing their own local guide books in which they feature these monuments.
Could the Minister indicate where this booklet is obtainable?
From Bord Fáilte.
Only?
Bord Fáilte distribute copies to their offices.