Vol. 474 No. 2
2 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the action, if any, he intends taking in the event of a reduction in EU grant assistance in 1999 to the tourism industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2744/97]
Together with the tourism industry I have been conscious for some time of the need to plan properly for when the current round of EU Structural Funds expires at the end of 1999. The issue has already surfaced 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 referred to the matter in many speeches over the past 2 years in which I 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 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 and 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 pursued as vigorously and effectively as possible.
What action, if any, did the Minister take during the course of our Presidency of the EU to ensure that Ireland will qualify, post-1999, for additional funding for the tourism industry?
That is a separate question. A specific set of measures, targets and objectives were laid down for our Presidency which, by and large, were achieved. It is recognised within the Union that Ireland traditionally operates its Presidency of the EU in an effective, professional and efficient manner. The negotiations will not commence until the latter part of this year. In making arrangements to flag this in advance, we are consulting with the industry to receive opinions and advice on an ongoing basis. The Commission will make a communication on what it perceives as the future financial framework of the European Union, post-1999, which is likely to occur in the latter part of this year. The Government will pursue that communication as vigorously and effectively as possible in the interests of the country.
Does the Minister agree the matter is not being pursued vigorously enough, in light of his reply?
There is no point in pursuing it vigorously at present because it is not under discussion with the Commission. That time will come and I suspect that Ireland's case will be well prepared and presented. As already stated, this matter has been flagged for the past two years and we know the current arrangements will cease in 1999. Therefore, we must be prepared to make our case regarding the situation post-1999 and we will do so.
