Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Oct 1993

Vol. 435 No. 2

Written Answers. - Operational Programme for Tourism.

Andrew Boylan

Question:

19 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade, in view of the fact that the new operational programme for tourism will build on the partnership between the EC and the public and private sectors, as set out in the National Development Plan 1994-1999, the procedures, if any, that have been established or are proposed to ensure that the private sector is fully involved in the preparation and implementation of this new programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism and Trade (Mr. McCreevy)

For some months now, the Government has been engaged in an extensive process of consultations with national and regional interests in relation to the recently published National Development Plan.

In a tourism context, I and my Department have met with, and received submissions from, a wide range of tourism interests, including trade representative associations such as the Irish Hotels Federation and the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation (ITIC), which represents the principal participants in the Irish tourism industry. I have of course also had the benefit of the recommendations of the Tourism Task Force in relation to Structural Funding which, in the course of its deliberations, received submissions from 130 bodies and individuals. Account is being taken of these submissions in preparing proposals for the next operational programme for tourism, 1994-1999.

Deputies will also be aware that I have recently established the National Tourism Council, which will provide the industry with direct access to me and my officials on a regular basis in relation to all aspects of tourism policy, including advising on their priorities for the next tourism operational programme. My commitment to maintaining and improving relationships with the industry's private sector representatives is evidenced by my decision to include on the new National Tourism Council thirteen representatives of the Irish tourist industry from outside the public sector.

I am confident that they will be active in bringing to my attention any issues of concern to the tourist industry relating to the forthcoming tourism programme.