Vol. 436 No. 8
4 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if he will announce the next operational programme for tourism as a matter of urgency in view of the fact that a large number of projects are on hold pending its provisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The preparation of the proposed new Operational Programme for Tourism, 1994-99, is nearing completion in my Department. However, publication of the programme is subject to the prior approval and agreement of the EU Commission, who are currently engaged in the examination of Ireland's National Development Plan 1994-1999.
I expect it will be the New Year before I am in a position to publish an agreed programme for the tourism sector.
As a large number of projects are ready to proceed pending the announcement of the operational programme for tourism, will the Minister indicate what types of enterprises, especially those relating to hotel and hostel accommodation, will be grant-aided under it?
I cannot give the Deputy that information as I would be speculating. The operational programme must be submitted to the Commission for approval and that may not take place for a considerable time. Therefore, I could not be expected to outline the various matters that may be considered in the operational programme, but a certain amount of money will be provided in the National Development Plan for tourism in the period 1994-99. It would not be helpful to give specific details at this time.
Does the Minister agree we could lose out on development for a season if details of the programme are not announced shortly because operators will not invest if an announcement is not made before the spring? This is a matter of urgency. It is important for tourism that details of the programme should be announced in the near future to provide much needed facilities, projects and products.
It is down to logistics as well as other considerations. The broad thrust of the National Development Plan as it relates to tourism has been discussed with the Commission and details of the operational programme have yet to be submitted to it. The amount of money available for the tourism programme in the 1989-93 plan is exhausted but it has not been brought to my notice that worthwhile projects did not proceed. I recognise that the sooner the operational programme is published, the better as it will provide certainty for future planning. I intend to expedite this matter as soon as possible.
