I propose to take Questions Nos. 8, 28, 56 and 57 together.
I propose to circulate in the Official Report a schedule setting out the number of premises registered or approved by Bord Fáilte in the different categories requested by the Deputy. The requirements for such registration or approval are either laid down in Regulations made under the Tourist Traffic Acts 1939-87 or in the relevant official standards set by Bord Fáilte.
I do not propose to introduce a system of mandatory registration for all types of tourist accommodation. Such a system is unnecessary, would do little to improve general standards and could reduce the accommodation bank, in particular, for the low budget tourist. Moreover, such a system would give rise to endless difficulties as regards policing and enforcement.
As regards registration, grading and approval of tourism products, in general, the existing standards set by Bord Fáilte are appropriate for our requirements, taking into account our position as a maturing tourist destination and the competitive pressures within the industry to satisfy tourist requirements.
As I have already stated publicly, I have decided to press ahead with implementation of the findings in the A. D. Little review of Bord Fáilte, which envisages the registration and grading functions being subcontracted to a third party inspector while maintaining the Bord Fáilte brand and standards. The detailed arrangements to give effect to this decision are being progressed by the steering committee which has been established to oversee implementation of the review.
Schedule
Category
|
Number
|
|
Hotels
|
676
|
Registered
|
Guesthouses
|
301
|
Registered
|
Town Houses
|
1,433
|
Approved
|
Country Houses
|
1,792
|
Approved
|
Farm Houses
|
644
|
Approved
|