Vol. 474 No. 2
30 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the action, if any, he intends taking by way of consultations and discussions with the tourism industry in respect of the additional funding structure necessary when EU funding at current levels diminishes after 1999. [2535/97]
Together with the tourism industry I have been conscious for some time of the need to plan properly for the situation when the current round of EU Structural Funds expires at the end of 1999. The issue has surfaced already in a number of fora such as the Tourism Council, the overseas tourism marketing initiative and in bilateral contacts between ITIC — industry representatives and my Department. I have referred to the matter in many speeches over the past two years in which I have exhorted the industry to build on its successes, particularly during this decade, by taking on more responsibility for the development, training and marketing of its own product. Consultation and discussion with the industry on this subject will continue as appropriate.
I understand from the Minister for Finance that the negotiations on the future financing of the European Union, including the Structural Funds, will not commence until the conclusion of the Intergovernmental Conference when the European Commission will submit a communication on the future financial framework of the Union as from 31 December 1999. This is likely to be in the second half of 1997. Ireland's approach to these negotiations is under consideration and when the negotiations commence, the Government will ensure that Ireland's interests are vigorously and effectively pursued.
