Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Jun 1999

Vol. 506 No. 3

Written Answers. - Sporting Ambassadors Programme.

Liz McManus

Question:

39 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the representations he has received from anti-smoking groups regarding his appointment of Mr. Eddie Jordan as a tourism sporting ambassador in view of the close association of the Jordan racing team with tobacco products; his response to the representations made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15485/99]

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

I have received representations from ASH Ireland about the appointment of Eddie Jordan as a tourism sporting ambassador.

In my response I indicated that I set up a sporting ambassadors programme last year in order that the international profile of Ireland's more prominent sporting personalities might be harnessed to contribute to our overseas tourism promotional efforts. Having decided to continue the programme, which is administered by Bord Fáilte, I included Eddie Jordan, in his personal capacity, as one of the 1999 ambassadors.

Under the terms of his contract with Bord Fáilte, Mr. Jordan will undertake a variety of tourism promotional appearances and will display, as appropriate, Bord Fáilte-Ryder Cup logos. I understand that the media material to be used for these occasions will feature the Bord Fáilte logo and "Ireland-Island of Sport" only.

Finally, I indicated in my reply to ASH Ireland that as a medical doctor, I am all too aware of the perils of tobacco use and am fully supportive of the work of the health promotion unit and organisations such as ASH Ireland in this regard.