I am encouraged by the growth in both overseas visits and revenue to date this year. The most recent CSO figures for February to April showed a 4% increase in trips to Ireland compared to the same three months in 2012. Overseas revenue figures (excluding fares) for the first three months of 2013 rose by 12% from 2012 to €541 million. While a regional breakdown of these figures is not available, I am satisfied that the initiatives being taken by this Government are impacting positively on tourism in all of Ireland’s regions. These initiatives include reductions in VAT and employers’ PRSI and the short term visa waiver programme. More recently the Government extended the Employment and Incentive Investment Scheme to include tourism accommodation and introduced a diesel fuel rebate which will benefit coach operators.
Fáilte Ireland has funded a range of capital projects in the North West including the Sliabh Liag cliffs project and the redevelopment of Bundoran Waterworld. The route of the Wild Atlantic Way was announced recently and will provide a compelling reason for visitors to spend their holiday along the Western seaboard. Fáilte Ireland has also invested in a new state-of-the-art Discover Ireland Centre in the centre of Sligo.
In promoting the island of Ireland as a visitor destination, Tourism Ireland also highlight the many attractions and experiences available to visitors right across the country.
As regional development and overseas promotion are matters for the tourism agencies, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland for further information and direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten days.
