Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Oct 1997

Vol. 482 No. 1

Written Answers. - Seaside Resort Scheme.

Austin Deasy

Question:

43 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation his views on whether the tax incentive scheme introduced two years ago, to assist in the development of traditional holiday resorts, has been a success; if so, if he will extend the scheme to facilitate other resorts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17307/97]

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation (Dr. McDaid)

The Finance Act, 1995, made provision for a pilot tax relief scheme for certain resort areas to apply, on a pilot basis, to Achill, Arklow, Ballybunion, Bettystown/Laytown/ Mosney, Bundoran, Clogherhead, Clonakilty, Courtown, Enniscrone, Kilkee, Lahinch, Salthill, Tramore, Westport and Youghal for three years from 1 July 1995. The purpose of the scheme is to assist in the renewal and updating of tourist amenities and facilities in the areas designated.

The scheme — which, I emphasise again, is a pilot scheme — is being reviewed at present by my Department, the Department of Finance, the Revenue Commissioners and Bord Fáilte. I expect the review to be completed in the near future and it would clearly be inappropriate for me at this stage to attempt to anticipate or pre-empt its findings. However, I can assure the House that when I receive the review findings, I will have them considered quickly and my proposals in the matter will then be put to Government as speedily as possible.