Vol. 452 No. 6
60 Mr. Dempsey asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if he will instruct Bord Fáilte, SFADCo and RTOs to give Family Homes of Ireland equal status to the Town and Country Homes Association and the Farm Holidays Association to allow them to approve accommodation for tourists. [8341/95]
My Department is progressing a whole range of issues in relation to the implementation of the Arthur D. Little review of Bord Failte, the recommendations of which were accepted by the Government last November. Much progress has been made in restructuring Bord Failte and in divesting its non-core functions.
In the case of product approvals — or the awarding of shamrocks — which covers the bed and breakfast sector, the decision is that the industry associations themselves should undertake this role, subject to formal recognition by Bord Failte. Discussions are ongoing with the various associations in this regard, with the objective of putting in place a new arrangement for later this year on the basis of the existing bed and breakfast standard. However, I want to make it clear to the House that no exclusive right to approve premises is being given to any of the existing associations. Under the new arrangements, I am not ruling out new associations being recognised or different standards emerging over time, in agreement with Bord Failte as this is clearly in line with the A. D. Little review.
I am aware of the existence of the Family Homes of Ireland and it is open to them to apply for recognition by Bord Failte on the basis of agreeing to apply the existing bed and breakfast standard.
