Vol. 475 No. 5
85 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for Finance the number of seaside resorts other than those already included in the schedule of seaside resorts in the Finance Act 1995 which have applied to be included under the pilot renewal scheme for traditional seaside resorts; and the number of applications accepted and included. [5374/97]
The pilot renewal scheme for traditional seaside resorts commenced on 1 July 1995 for a three year period. It is in operation in 15 seaside resorts around the country.
I do not have a comprehensive list of the areas which have since sought inclusion in the scheme, as representations were made to my colleague the Minister for Tourism and Trade, Deputy Kenny as well as to myself. However, as an indication of the numbers involved, to date I have received representations on behalf of about 50 areas seeking inclusion in the scheme. In addition, for one particular county, over 20 different towns and villages were suggested for inclusion in the scheme. It should be noted that not all the towns suggested for inclusion in the scheme are situated on the coast.
As this is a pilot scheme, it would seem inappropriate to consider designating any additional resorts until the scheme has been firmly established and evaluated. Thus, no applications have been accepted for inclusion in the pilot scheme since its introduction.
86 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed in a number of reports on the negative effects which Rosslare will suffer if it is not included in the list of resorts scheduled under the pilot renewal scheme for traditional seaside resorts in the Finance Act 1995; the steps, if any, he will take in view of these concerns to ensure that Rosslare is included as a scheduled seaside resort to allow it to achieve its potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5375/97]
I have received a number of representations seeking to have Rosslare included in the pilot renewal scheme for traditional seaside resorts. However, as this is a pilot scheme, introduced on 1 July 1995 and in operation in 15 seaside resorts around the country, it would seem inappropriate to consider designating any additional resorts until the scheme is firmly established and evaluated.
