Jimmy Deenihan
Question:384 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he will meet representatives of the Heritage Towns of Ireland in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4240/02]
Written Answers. - Heritage Towns Programme.
As the Deputy may be aware, €14 million, £11 million, in grants from the European Regional Development Fund, administered by Bord Fáilte and Shannon Development, was provided towards the cost of developing elements of the heritage towns programme under the Operational Programmes for Tourism 1989-1993 and 1994-1999. This funding was by way of assistance to promoters towards the cost of presentation and, in some instances, promotion of the heritage elements of the proposed development plans of some 34 designated heritage towns. Most local authorities played a lead role in the promotion and development of the programme in the relevant towns.
Since then Bord Fáilte has continued to contribute towards the cost of the annual overseas marketing plans of the heritage towns. I understand that a progress report on the overall project has been prepared and that the representatives of the Heritage Towns of Ireland have been in consultation with Bord Fáilte in this regard. There are no plans for meetings, additional to these consultations, with myself or my Department.