Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 2

Written Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.

Richard Bruton

Question:

136 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he has developed a method for certifying tourist activities which can go ahead where the risks of foot and mouth disease infection are minimal if suitable precautions are taken; and the plans he has to enter into discussions with tourism interests along these lines. [8464/01]

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

I have already indicated my concern at the impact of foot and mouth disease precautions on the tourism industry and I am fully aware of the current difficulties in relation to restricted access to our national cultural and heritage attractions.

The possibility of foot and mouth disease – FMD – spreading to this country threatens our economic security and livelihoods, not just those of our farmers and the agriculture and food sector, but potentially of virtually every citizen. Agriculture and livestock are of such vital importance to the whole Irish economy that we have to be thorough in our efforts to make sure that the disease does not spread further with disastrous consequences. While I welcomed the easing of foot and mouth disease controls announced recently by my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, the position is now obviously under review in the light of today's developments.

My Department and Bord Fáilte continue to work closely with the tourism industry to monitor developments and to advise on the impact of the control measures to date. The objective is to ensure that all reasonable efforts are made to enable tourism within Ireland to continue to operate, while ensuring that the industry does not take unnecessary risks that would jeopardise our agriculture base. I would like to express my appreciation for the support of the tourism industry in recent weeks and look forward to their continuing co-operation to overcome our current difficulties. I am anxious that there is a clear message that Ireland remains open for tourism business and that, subject to the taking of appropriate precautions, Ireland remains a welcoming destination for international visitors.