asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if, in view of the problems facing farmers in many areas of overproduction, he is satisfied that sufficient efforts are being made to develop farm-related tourism.
Written Answers. - Farm-Related Tourism.
77.
I am satisfied with the efforts being made to develop farm-related tourism.
Bord Fáilte currently operate a grant scheme to assist the provision of tourist accommodation in farmhouses. Under the scheme grants are provided for both structural improvements and furnishings in approved farmhouse accommodation.
In addition, as stated in the Government's White Paper on Tourism Policy, the possibilities associated with the development of "green tourism" and "Gites" type holidays are being examined by Bord Fáilte. These concepts involve the merging of farming and tourism and the provision of reasonably priced, distinctive, self-catering accommodation in a farming environment.