Ireland's greatest natural tourism strength is our clean and green environment. We have the lowest population density in Europe with large open spaces, uncrowded roads and areas of great scenic beauty. This is a legacy of history and nature that I am determined to preserve.
To this end the Operational Programme for Tourism, 1994-1999 which was launched last September acknowledges that a balance must be struck between development and conservation. All developments under the programme will be required to comply with the best environmental standards.
One of the main instruments used to ensure the maintenance of environmental standards will be the planning process. Recent changes to planning law announced by my colleague the Minister for the Environment will enhance the transparency of compliance. The planning process will also be used to ensure the application of EU Environment Impact Assessment Directives.
In the execution of the programme, due account will be taken of the nature conservation objectives contained in the EU Directives on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna. The programme will also take account of the commitments of the EU and member states to safeguarding species and avoiding or minimising any deterioration of important natural habitats intending for protection by the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.
We are not, nor do we wish to be, a mass tourism destination. In planning for the further development of tourism, while priority will be given to developing new markets and products to improve the seasonal and geographic spread of tourism in Ireland, this will be done in a fashion that is fully sensitive to the need for compatibility with our environmental strengths. Already Bord Fáilte actively markets eco-tourism under the banner of "Ireland Naturally" which is published in English, French, Dutch, German and Italian and is available in all our overseas markets. This brochure covers wetlands, bogs, national parks, nature reserves, bird-watching, etc. Also, ecology holidays into Ireland are being sold by an increasing number of overseas specialist agents who continue to recognise and market the reality of Ireland's clean environment and natural setting.
