Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Mar 2001

Vol. 532 No. 1

Written Answers. - Tourism Revenue.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

81 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he expects the strengthening of the euro against sterling and the dollar to impact adversely on tourism from the UK and the US in the coming tourist season; and the measures he proposes to counteract this. [6690/01]

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

While most forecasts suggest that the euro should strengthen against the dollar and sterling, the current rate has not appreciated significantly against these currencies compared to this time last year. Other factors such as foot and mouth disease and the slow down in the US economy are more likely to impact on tourism flows than currency movements in the short-term.

On the other hand, I understand from Bord Fáilte that a recent survey suggests that the Irish tourist industry and the hotel sector, in particular, have experienced price increases above the general levels of inflation. At a recent Irish Tourist Industry Confederation dinner, I referred to this worrying trend and underlined the importance of all economic operators taking appropriate measures to maintain and improve competitiveness.

The tourism marketing plans for 2001, which were launched before Christmas by Bord Fáilte, in conjunction with the Tourism Marketing Partnership, involve the largest ever commitment of State and industry marketing funding, amounting in total to more than £90 million. Decisions taken in the last budget helped boost that figure to approximately £100 million. This funding will enable a series of targeted initiatives to be undertaken across all major markets, including Britain, which was the subject last year of a major consultancy review by Bord Fáilte.

Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 45.