asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has considered the views of the tourism industry which were set out at the national tourism forum organised by Bord Fáilte in September 1988; as a consequence, the plans he has to ensure that the tourism targets set out in the Programme for National Recovery will be attained; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Tourism Targets.
64.
The recommendations from the Tourism Forum on measures to achieve the tourism targets set out in the Programme for National Recovery were considered by Government. In response, the Government has increased this year's allocation for tourism promotion by £5 million on condition that it is matched by £5 million from private industry sources. This will allow Bord Fáilte in co-operation with the industry to implement an expanded marketing programme as recommended by the Forum in our main markets in good time for the 1989 peak tourist season. Detailed expenditure proposals drawn up by Bord Fáilte and the industry have been approved by the Government. I have been assured that these proposals taken in conjunction with other Government initiatives, particularly on lower access fares will facilitate the tourism industry in meeting the targets set out in the Programme for National Recovery.