asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he proposes to make any changes in the structure or personnel of the board of directors of Bord Fáilte Éireann.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tourist Industry.
17.
Mr. O'Donnell
I do not propose to make any immediate changes in the structure or personnel of the board of directors of Bord Fáilte Éireann.
The number of members of the board was increased from seven to nine by the Tourist Traffic Act, 1970. Appointments to this board, in common with others, are made for limited periods of time and it is long established practice to review the appointments according as they fall due for renewal.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that, when he introduced the 1970 Tourist Traffic Act increasing the membership of Bord Fáilte from seven to nine, he indicated that that was purely an interim measure and that when a full assessment had been made he would introduce other legislation to carry out whatever restructuring or reorganisation was necessary? Surely the Minister will agree that, having regard to the present situation in the Irish tourist industry, particularly after the series of blunders made by Bord Fáilte recently, drastic restructuring and change of personnel are a matter of extreme urgency?
With regard to Bord Fáilte there is a complete examination going on at the moment, which has practically reached finality, into what sort of system of assistance we should have in the future. I would hope to have information on this very soon arising out of the report which has almost reached finality.
Mr. O'Donnell
Before the Minister leaves his present ministry?
18.
Mr. O'Donnell
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that existing tourism policy is no longer adequate to enable the Irish tourist industry to overcome its present difficulties; if so, whether any changes in policy are now contemplated; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
19.
Mr. O'Donnell
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the growing concern about the present state of the Irish tourist industry; if so, whether he proposes to take any steps to deal with the present crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With your permission, a Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 19 together.
I do not accept the Deputy's contention that the Government's existing tourism policy is no longer adequate. The Government's policy and its high level of financial support have been considerable factors in expanding the tourist industry to its present level of importance. In the current year, the Government is providing £8.35 million for the financing of Bord Fáilte's activities.
I am very much aware of and concerned about the industry's current problems. These difficulties are mainly attributable to the impact of the Northern Ireland situation on our markets. I am not satisfied that any change in policy at this juncture would improve matters; any change could, by undermining present efforts, do more harm than good. I am keeping in very close touch with Bord Fáilte, who are taking every possible step to improve the flow of visitors to Ireland.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that the tourist industry in general has lost confidence in Bord Fáilte particularly in the light of a number of major blunders made by that body in recent times, for example, the publication of a restaurant guide at a cost of £5,000 which was withdrawn subsequently, the delay in publishing the annual——
We cannot have a discussion on the question.
The Deputy is talking nonsense. Bord Fáilte are at the moment examining in full the whole future of the industry. They are doing this in a very scientific way and not in the manner in which words are being bandied about in the House. Very shortly they will put forward proposals on which we can attempt to plan ahead for the industry.
(Cavan): There have been too many political appointments in Bord Fáilte.
So far as Bord Fáilte are concerned in regard to their operations within overall policy, this policy may have to be changed because the industry is a fluctuating one and such matters as the type of assistance which should be given and where it should be channelled will have to be considered. All these basic matters are under examination now and I hope there will be practical proposals from Bord Fáilte in the near future.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that since 1970 numerous reports have been produced within Bord Fáilte and surveys carried out by the board of which the public are not aware? Last year, in the case of the ESB, the Minister set up the Fletcher Commission. Could I suggest to the Minister that the ideal way of creating a situation which would restore confidence in Bord Fáilte is to have a public independent inquiry similar to that carried out by the Fletcher Commission?
I am happy that results coming to hand show an entirely fresh and vital approach to the future of the tourist industry.
Mr. O'Donnell
Will the Minister instigate an inquiry into Bord Fáilte?
I am calling Question No. 20.