I propose to take Questions
Nos. 41 and 166 together.
The pilot initiative on tourism and the environment was launched in February 1998 as a new measure under the Operational Programme for Tourism, 1994-1999, arising from the mid-term review. The objective of the measure was to promote, through grant aid, projects of a pilot or demonstration nature that undertook to contribute to knowledge and understanding of best practice in terms of managing the relationship between tourism and the environment.
The pilot initiative involved total investment of some £5 million under the operational programme of which £2.6 million was co-funded from the European Regional Development Fund. Full details of the 22 projects approved for funding and the European Regional Development Fund resources allocated in each case are contained in a final evaluation report produced by the external evaluator of the operational programme in September 2000. Copies of this report, which includes a detailed assessment of individual projects at that time, are being sent to the Deputies.
In concluding that the pilot initiative was a success, the report clearly pointed to the fact that city and county councils and managers had a crucial role to play in the future management of the tourism and the environment interface. I agree with this conclusion and last February I wrote to each local authority enclosing a copy of the report and inviting them to take a lead role in formulating a cohesive and integrated approach to tourism and the environment issues in their areas. I sought their full co-operation and active support in fostering the development of new initiatives and strategies following on from the learning that emerged from the initiative.