The provision of business supports to individual sectors of the tourism industry is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland.
That said, the Irish Pub has long been recognised as one of the most popular tourist attractions, with Irish nightlife voted in the top 10 of the world by Trip Advisor and our pubs voted the best in the world by Lonely Planet. The traditional pub is an attractive offering to visitors particularly in regard to traditional music, general entertainment, the availability of food and a general feel for the Irish culture and people.
The importance of the pub is recognised in the promotional and development work of the Tourism Agencies. For example, Fáilte Ireland has developed a Pub Accreditation Scheme to ensure that all visitors feel equally welcome when they experience Ireland and its pubs. The quality-based approval system allows the very best of Ireland's Pubs and Licensed Premises to become accredited by Fáilte Ireland, and marketed for domestic and international visitors, regardless of their location and independent of membership of industry bodies. Participation in the scheme is voluntary.
I have referred the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland to enable them provide further details of the scheme to the Deputy and further details of the work it undertakes with the sector. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
