Vol. 458 No. 3
17 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the discussions, if any, his Department has had with the Department of the Environment regarding infrastructural problems in some of the pilot resort areas; if so, the outcome of these discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17034/95]
96 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the discussions, if any, his Department has had with the Department of the Environment regarding infrastructural problems in some of the pilot resort areas; the outcome of these discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17030/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 96 together.
As the Minister indicated in reply to supplementary questions on 5 October last, the provision of necessary infrastructure for the designated resorts is a matter for consideration in the first instance by the local authorities. He has received representations in respect of possible infrastructural problems in one county with pilot resort areas, and has referred the matter to the Minister for the Environment for attention.
The Minister and I hope developments under the scheme will not be impeded by a lack of such infrastructure and expect this matter will be kept under review by local authorities and the Minister for the Environment. Meanwhile, there continues to be a high level of investor interest in the scheme and recently the Minister published a comprehensive brouchure on the scheme which is available from the local Regional Tourism Organisation and Bord Fáilte.
When we were last here at Question Time I pointed out to the Minister that, although there was huge interest in the pilot resort schemes in Lahinch and Kilkee, there were infrastructural difficulties. I am disappointed that the Minister for Tourism and Trade has not made some progress with his colleague in the Department of the Environment in ensuring that Cohesion Fund schemes are at least approved. Because they are not, progress cannot be made and planning permission cannot be granted in respect of some very worthwhile projects. I urge the Minister to take the matter up with his colleague.
Arising from the previous question tabled by Deputy Killeen and representations from the chief executive officer of the Mid Western Regional Authority, the Minister, Deputy Kenny made representations to the Department of the Environment, and we are awaiting a response.
