Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Mar 1997

Vol. 475 No. 8

Written Answers. - Resorts' Designation.

Eoin Ryan

Question:

20 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the representations, if any, he has made to the Department of Finance to develop designated status for more Irish resorts; if so, the status of these representations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5994/97]

Minister for Tourism and Trade (Mr. E. Kenny)

The pilot tax relief scheme for certain resort areas was introduced in the Finance Act, 1995 and operates for a three year period from 1 July 1995. Since its inception, I have received over 200 requests urging the extension of the scheme to include about 50 separate locations, in addition to the 15 areas already designated.

From time to time, I have consulted with the Minister for Finance, who has primary responsibility for the scheme, about the possibility of extending it but we have agreed not to make any changes to its scope or to designate any new areas until the present three year pilot period has elapsed and a full evaluation has been completed. At this point it is simply too early to say what will be the outcome of the evaluation.