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Thursday, 27 Jun 2013

Written Answers Nos. 1-29

Tourism Policy

Questions (10, 37, 56)

Martin Heydon

Question:

10. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will outline the major issues that he will seek to address within his proposed new tourism policy; and the way members of the industry and the public will be able to engage with this review. [31025/13]

View answer

Martin Ferris

Question:

37. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a progress report on the current review of the national tourism policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30947/13]

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Gerry Adams

Question:

56. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he intends to publish a consultation document on the review of tourism policy and to seek contributions from stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30951/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 10, 37 and 56 together.

These questions relate to the development of a new tourism policy.

Commencing a review of tourism policy is one of my Departmental priorities for 2013.  The purpose of this review is to develop a new tourism policy that will provide the necessary direction and framework to support a competitive and sustainable tourism industry over the coming five to ten years.  This review will take account of the many factors that will impact on Irish tourism, including prospects for the national economy, expected developments in the international economy and anticipated trends in global tourism.

In order to ensure that the final tourism policy is robust and supports the competitiveness of the Irish tourist industry into the future, it is vital to secure the views of all relevant stakeholders.  Therefore, I intend to publish a consultation document in the coming weeks presenting the various issues arising and inviting comments from all interested stakeholders and consumers.  Furthermore, I also intend to engage in a round of consultations in the Autumn to facilitate active and meaningful engagement with the industry and other relevant stakeholders.  As I have mentioned previously, I believe that the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport and Communications, which covers tourism, can also play an important role in the consultation process and will be inviting them to consider the matter.  I would also welcome any contribution to the consultation process from the Deputies or their parties.

The submissions received in response to the consultation process will inform my final statement of tourism policy which, in turn, will provide a robust foundation for the subsequent development of a broader tourism strategy and action plan.

VAT Rates Application

Questions (11)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

11. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will seek to extend the 9% VAT rate for tourist related economic services; if there is ample evidence to suggest that the reduced VAT rate has increased activity in the tourist sector; his further plans to boost the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31062/13]

View answer

Written answers

This question relates to the extension of the reduced VAT rate of 9% beyond the end of this year. I am very conscious that the tourism and hospitality industry would like to see the rate continued through 2014 and beyond.

I am also conscious that it has been estimated by the Department of Finance that the VAT reduction costs the Exchequer up to €350 million a year. In that context, I am supportive of retaining a reduced rate, but that can only be justified on the basis of clear evidence of the impact of the reduction.

In this regard, an examination of the VAT rate cut by the Department of Finance in late 2012 found that employment among accommodation and food providers increased by 6,200 from the second quarter of 2011 to the equivalent period in 2012.  This amounted to an 8-9% increase in employment in the sector when compared to the decline in overall market services employment (excluding accommodation and food and public sector employment) in that period.  It also found that inflation in the sector lagged the overall trend.

More recently, the VAT cut has also helped improve perceptions of value amongst our overseas visitors.  When the percentage of people who had a negative perception of our value for money is subtracted from those with a positive perception, the figures have improved dramatically since 2009. 2009 had a negative rating of -11% and 2012 was +24%.  Other positive indicators include hotel occupancy rates which were at their highest in 2012 since 2007 with a noticeable jump between 2011 and 2012 from 56% to 61%.

As the Deputy is aware, the final decision regarding matter of taxation policy is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Finance.

Semi-State Bodies Annual Reports

Questions (12, 70)

Micheál Martin

Question:

12. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the current financial position of CIE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31073/13]

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Alan Farrell

Question:

70. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the financial situation of the CIE companies and the State funding that will be required to protect public transport operations in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31085/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 70 together.

These questions relate to the current financial position of  the CIE Group.

Since 2008, the financial performance of CIÉ has been severely affected by the economic recession which has resulted in a significant reduction in passenger numbers. CIÉ recorded total losses in the three years 2009 to 2011 of over €137m. The current CIE business plan 2013-2017 provides for almost break even by 2015 and a return to profitability of the Group thereafter.

To compensate for the reduced passenger revenues and PSO subvention, CIÉ have engaged in a cost recovery programme over recent years. Further cost saving measures have now been agreed with Bus Éireann unions and the Labour Court has recently issued a recommendation in relation to the proposed cost reduction plan in Dublin Bus. The Labour Relations Committee has also facilitated discussions between unions and management at Irish Rail on further cost saving measures and recently issued its proposals.

In July 2012 the Government approved an increase in the 2012 subvention to CIE by €36 million to €278 million to ensure that the companies could continue to operate PSO services for the rest of 2012. Given the pressure on the public finances there will be no additional funding from the Exchequer in 2013. The implementation of a credible business plan will therefore be essential to CIE's financial recovery in the period ahead.

The Board of CIÉ are pursuing a range of measures to address the financial position.  At the end of 2012 a significant voluntary severance programme was implemented in Irish Rail and the Group generated cash of €20 million by selling its interest in the ground lease in Spencer Dock.  CIÉ will also benefit from the introduction of a fuel rebate in July and in addition, the Group has benefitted from fare increases approved by the NTA. The Group has recently negotiated improved bank facilities in relation to refinancing of the Group, which will ensure that the Group has sufficient funding into the future.

Light Rail Projects Status

Questions (13, 23, 30, 71)

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

13. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress being achieved in the development of the Luas Cross City project. [30936/13]

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Martin Ferris

Question:

23. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the progress made with the Luas Cross City project; and the plans for a north and southbound station at Dawson Street, Dublin 2. [31032/13]

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Alan Farrell

Question:

30. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when construction is due to commence on the Luas Cross City project; if there is a proposed completion date; the number of new jobs this project will create in 2013; if he foresees further Luas project extensions toward Dublin North; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31084/13]

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Paschal Donohoe

Question:

71. Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a report on the progress being made to date in the development of the Luas Cross City project. [31078/13]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 23, 30 and 71 together.

These relate to the Luas Cross City project.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), including the proposed Luas Cross City project.

Luas Cross City Line is a priority project under the Government's 5-year capital plan - Infrastructure & Capital Investment Programme 2012-2016 - Medium Term Exchequer Framework.  In November 2012, following consideration by Government, I asked the NTA and the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) to proceed with the procurement and contractual arrangements so that the enabling works for the project would commence mid-2013.

I understand that a building survey contract is now underway. Following the recent award of the two Cellars Infill and Investigation Contracts, works commenced this week which will locate, and where necessary infill, cellars which may be under footpaths and road ways along the route. The contract for the Heritage Works Contract is scheduled for award shortly and initial works are planned for September 2013. Works on the Utility Diversions Contract are also planned to commence in September 2013. Procurement for the main contract will commence in mid-2014 with main construction works due to start in early 2015. The target date for commencement of services is end-2017.

The NTA are consulting with business representatives in the Dawson Street area with regard to the re-instatement of a northbound stop on Dawson Street. A report on possible locations for a proposed stop is expected to be available in late-July 2013.

The new project will create up to 800 jobs during the construction phase with a further 60 permanent jobs on completion. A breakdown by year is not available.

There are no plans in the current Capital Programme to further extend the Luas lines. However, the NTA is currently preparing an Integrated Implementation Plan for investment to 2018 in the GDA as required under the DTA Act 2008. This plan will address the investment needs of the Area to 2018 based on available funding and will be subject to public consultation later this year.

Rugby World Cup Bid

Questions (14, 35)

Seamus Kirk

Question:

14. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the actions, if any, he has taken to advance the IRFU's bid for the Rugby World Cup in 2023 or 2027; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31069/13]

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Eoghan Murphy

Question:

35. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the possibility of Ireland bidding to host the Rugby World Cup in 2023 or 2027. [30937/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 35 together.

I am fully supportive of the concept of hosting the Rugby World Cup in Ireland but it is, of course,  a matter for the IRFU to prepare and submit a bid.  The IRFU recently presented to Minister Varadkar and myself a feasibility study which they commissioned on the potential for hosting the tournament. The findings of that report are being considered.

The support of other sporting organisations would be an important element in the bid process and I am pleased to note that on 23 March delegates at the GAA Congress approved a motion which would allow the inclusion of Croke Park and other GAA grounds in the list of venues that would be used for matches if Ireland was selected as the host country for the tournament.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment that event tourism will be prioritised in order to continue to bring major events to Ireland. As well as the primary purpose of bringing spectators to our shores, the hosting of sports events can provide a great showcase for Ireland.  Fáilte Ireland continues to support the holding of sports and other events that can boost tourism and, where appropriate, will provide advice and assistance to the sporting body which is seeking to secure an international event.  I understand that Fáilte Ireland has engaged with the IRFU in this regard and are considering the likely tourism impact of hosting the tournament. 

The bid has also been discussed with the Northern Ireland Minister for Tourism, Arlene Foster MLA, and Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA. They have met with the IRFU and  have also indicated their support for a bid.

Tourism Promotion

Questions (15)

Willie O'Dea

Question:

15. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to further promote the cruise ship tourism sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31068/13]

View answer

Written answers

This question is about cruise ship tourism.

The cruise ship sector has seen significant growth in recent years and is a sector that has considerable potential to contribute to the growth of the overall tourism sector in Ireland.  In April 2013 the Irish Maritime Development Office published figures for 2012 which show a 14.5% increase in the number of large cruise vessel calls to the island of Ireland. Based on expected visits to Irish ports this summer, it is expected that there will be a further increase in cruise vessel calls in 2013.

The Government's Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland includes an action to investigate opportunities to increase Ireland's share of the cruise tourism market and develop Ireland as a turnaround destination, including supporting port companies in their plans to develop or expand cruise facilities using their own resources.

In line with this a number of port companies are developing proposals to facilitate greater volumes and provide better cruise related facilities within ports. All these developments have to be funded commercially by the port companies themselves as there is no scope for Exchequer financing under State Aid rules. 

It is important to recognise that the nature of the cruise industry is that it is not a lucrative source of revenue for port companies and that it can be difficult for investments in this area to remunerate themselves from the charges the ports levy. However, such visits provide considerable benefit for the local and wider regional economy. Therefore in the context of the proposed development of larger scale cruise facilities, it is appropriate for each port company to consider whether they can fund these developments from their own resources on a commercial basis and if not, if those beneficiaries of cruise tourism, be they regional interests or the cruise operators, can contribute to development costs.

In relation to the further development of cruise tourism, the matters raised are of an operational nature and are for consideration by Fáilte Ireland. I have referred the Deputy's question to the agency for further information and direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Question No. 16 answered with Question No. 8.

State Airports

Questions (17, 34)

Joe Carey

Question:

17. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the legislation to merge Shannon Airport and Shannon Development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30984/13]

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Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

34. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to review the €3 travel tax; his plans to encourage further development of the air connections to Ireland; if he is satisfied with the activities of the newly independent Shannon Airport Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31065/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 34 together.

These relate to the merger of Shannon Airport and Shannon Development. As I pointed out in my replies to Dáil Question Nos. 7 and 63 on 15th May last, work on the preparation of the Heads of a Bill to provide for the merger of the Shannon Airport Authority (SAA) and a restructured Shannon Development is on-going in my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and with the assistance of the Attorney General's Office.

I expect to introduce the Bill to the House during the autumn session.  When the Heads are finalised and approved by Government, I will refer them to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport for their consideration prior to drafting.

Of course, the plans and preparations for the merger are continuing and I am very satisfied with progress  to date by the newly independent Shannon Airport Authority (SAA).

As I pointed out last month, the high-level Steering Group of key Departments continues to meet on a regular basis and the Chairman of SAA serves on this group. Transition teams at senior management level are also in situ in both Shannon Airport Authority and Shannon Development to ensure the smooth implementation and management of the merger while also ensuring that normal day-to-day business and operations carry on uninterrupted.

Following the successful conclusion last month of a facilitation process between management and union representatives in Shannon Development to address a number of staff issues, staff transfers from that company have commenced to Fáilte Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA.  Some staff are also being redeployed to other agencies in the region.  A voluntary early retirement and voluntary redundancy scheme was also successfully concluded last month in Shannon Development with 25 staff availing of the scheme.

The new Chief Executive of the Shannon Airport Authority and of the proposed new Shannon entity took up his post on 10th June and the key priority for him and the board of SAA is to halt the decline in passenger traffic, and then reverse it.

I am confident that Shannon can have a successful long-term sustainable future, now that the board and management are free to determine that future themselves.

As regards the travel tax, the Government’s offer to abolish this tax in return for an increase in capacity and the restoration of cancelled routes and reduced capacity stands. The purpose of the offer was to stimulate inbound tourist traffic. While there have been some positive developments in relation to additional capacity in 2013, particularly on US-Ireland routes, linked to both general traffic demand and the expected increased traffic relating to the Gathering, overall the response from the airlines to date has been inadequate. The Government has made it clear that it will need to see a significant growth in capacity and routes across the full range of sectors and airports before consideration can be given to abolishing the tax. 

In relation to the development of air connections to Ireland, the three State airports offer a range of incentive schemes to airlines to maintain and grow their business at those airports. This includes the Growth Incentive Scheme which was introduced as part of the Government's Jobs Initiative aimed at encouraging inbound tourism.  Under this Scheme, a total of €1.5m was rebated by the DAA to airlines in 2012 for increasing their passenger numbers during the year.

Public Transport Initiatives

Questions (18)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

18. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to work with LUAS to allow for passengers to bring their bikes on board at off-peak times and to generally encourage accommodation of cyclists on public transport. [31038/13]

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Written answers

This question relates to the accommodation of cyclists on public transport. The Programme for Government commits my Department to invest in the National Cycling Policy Framework.  Objective 8 of this policy framework is to ensure proper integration between cycling and public transport, with a specific action to provide for the carriage of bicycles on LUAS when services are of a frequency and at a capacity that allows for it, that is when they do not interfere with the capacity for passengers.

The Railway Procurement Authority considered the carriage of bicycles in 2012 as part of a review of all Luas operations. They concluded that bicycles could not be carried on Luas trams, because, for the most part, bicycles would interfere with the capacity for passengers, particularly those who are mobility impaired. 

Folded bicycles may be carried on the trams at all times.

My Department is currently reviewing the National Cycling Policy Framework and as part of this exercise has re-opened the issue of the carriage of bicycles on LUAS with the RPA.  Consultation with the RPA on this matter is on-going.

It should be noted that while the RPA has not permitted the carriage of bicycles on trams they have provided over 750 secure bike parking places along the LUAS routes to enable LUAS passengers to ‘bike and ride’.

With regard to carriage of bicycles on other public transport modes, Irish Rail allows bicycles to be carried on intercity trains at all times and on DART and other commuter services during the off-peak period.

Air Services Provision

Questions (19, 22, 58)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

19. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his preferred options for the future development and control of and shareholding in Aer Lingus; the extent to which it is envisaged that Ryanair might be expected to be involved in any plans in the context of the maximisation of air transport options and opportunities to and from this country worldwide; the extent to which it is intended to maximise opportunities for the possible development of an international air transport hub here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31081/13]

View answer

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

22. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on aviation policy; the measures being taken to develop and expand the number of routes and carriers operating from Cork Airport; his views on measures being taken to reduce operating costs at the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31027/13]

View answer

Michael Colreavy

Question:

58. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the meaning of recent statements that the State will become a more active shareholder in Aer Lingus and what this means for the State's long-term plans for its stake. [31037/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 19, 22 and 58 together.

These questions relate to Irish aviation policy and Irish airlines.

As an island, air transport connectivity is clearly of vital importance to Ireland for both economic and social reasons. There is a healthy competitive market for air services in and out of the country and we benefit from a wide range of air connections, both short and long haul. New routes are being announced on a regular basis by both Irish and international airlines. Maintaining and developing this connectivity is certainly a key objective of national aviation policy.

A consultation process to develop a new national aviation policy is currently underway. An issues paper was published on 1 March this year inviting submissions from stakeholders and interested parties. The deadline for submissions has recently been extended to 12 July in response to a number of requests. I anticipate that all the major airlines and airports will have substantial contributions to make to the consultation process. They each have a role to play in maximising options and opportunities for the development of the aviation sector.  I look forward to receiving their submissions along with the views of all interested parties.

Following receipt of submissions, a draft National Aviation Policy Statement will be issued in the second half of 2013. This will provide further opportunity for stakeholder input before the adoption of the new policy document in early 2014. The new policy will outline the actions to be taken by Government to help sustain and develop the aviation sector, in order to create jobs and support business and tourism.

In relation to the State's remaining shareholding in Aer Lingus, the Government continues to seek opportunities to dispose of the shareholding, but will only do so when market conditions are favourable and on terms and at a price that are acceptable. In the meantime the Government will continue to manage its shareholding actively to protect the State's interests and with the aim of maximising the value of the shareholding, securing dividends and encouraging new routes and additional capacity where commercially viable.

In relation to Cork airport questions regarding the development of routes and operating costs are day to day operational matters for the DAA and local management. I recently met with management at Cork Airport and welcomed their plans for the development of the Airport and for enhanced consultation by them with regional stakeholders.

Sports Funding

Questions (20)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

20. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a breakdown of the way the €43.798 million allocated to the Irish Sports Council in 2013 is to be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30948/13]

View answer

Written answers

The Irish Sports Council, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the promotion, development and co-ordination of sport, including the allocation of funding across its various programmes.

I have referred the Deputy’s question to the Irish Sports Council for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.  

Road Network

Questions (21)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

21. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the Tralee by-pass, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31040/13]

View answer

Written answers

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme.  The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.  

Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.

Question No. 22 answered with Question No. 19.
Question No. 23 answered with Question No. 13.

Cycling Facilities

Questions (24)

Anthony Lawlor

Question:

24. Deputy Anthony Lawlor asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered redeveloping the toll paths along the Royal and Grand canals, including their branches, to allow for a cycle path/ walk way which would ultimately link the city of Dublin to the west and south east; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30940/13]

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Written answers

My Department is fully supportive of the development of cycle ways along canal paths and recognises the benefits of these initiatives.  In general, it is a matter for relevant local authorities to progress and submit proposals for the development of such routes to the Department.   

In respect of the Grand Canal, I understand that the provision of a cycle way along the route from Dublin to Naas has been identified as a potential greenway on the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) cycle network.  However, no applications for funding of this section has been received to date by my Department or the National Transport Authority (NTA) which manages a funding programme that includes cycle infrastructure projects in the GDA.

This year, a seed financing scheme was established by my Department to give start-up support to local authorities to help with the development of initial proposals for noteworthy cycle projects.  As part of the scheme, Offaly County Council sought funding for the development of proposals for a 60km cycle route along the Grand Canal from Edenderry to Shannon Harbour.  There was considerable interest in the scheme and significantly more proposals were submitted than funding was available so regrettably, on this occasion, the proposal submitted was not successful.

In relation to the Royal Canal, the planning phase for a proposed Dublin-Galway Greenway is already underway, which will encompass part of the canal route from Dublin to Mullingar.

As above, the NTA is responsible for the provision of cycling infrastructure in the GDA and is therefore proceeding with the planning of the Dublin City Centre to Maynooth section of the proposed Greenway.

The NRA is undertaking the detailed route alignment and design work for the Maynooth to Galway section of the route.  The design of the section along the Royal Canal between Maynooth and Mullingar is complete and is currently the subject of planning processes in both Meath and Kildare.  Furthermore, the section from the Meath/Westmeath county boundary to Mullingar is currently under construction and will be completed before the end of the year.

North-South Ministerial Council

Questions (25)

Sandra McLellan

Question:

25. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide details of the agenda for the North/South Ministerial Council meeting to be held on 26 June in Armagh; if he will also provide specific details of the major tourism initiatives North-South planned for 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30941/13]

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Written answers

I attended the fourteenth North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) Tourism meeting in the NSMC Joint Secretariat offices, Armagh yesterday, 26 June 2013. The meeting was also attended by Arlene Foster MLA, Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and John O’Dowd MLA, Minister for Education. At the meeting we received a presentation from Tourism Ireland on their Business Plan for 2013 and priorities for the remainder of the year.   

The Council also discussed major tourism marketing initiatives including The Gathering Ireland 2013 and Derry-Londonderry UK City of Culture 2013, and noted the major role which Tourism Ireland is playing in their overseas promotion. Tourism Ireland's Annual Report and Accounts for 2012 were noted and there was also a useful discussion on the development of Tourism Ireland's Corporate Plan for the period 2014 to 2016. 

In terms of other initiatives in the tourism area, there is ongoing cooperation between the tourism agencies and Government Departments north and south in a number of other areas including the selection of suitable tourism projects to benefit from Peace/INTERREG funds, work to harmonise and share tourism statistics north and south and specific initiatives by the agencies in relation to major events such as the Giro d'Italia. I look forward to this work continuing and to availing of any other beneficial opportunities for north/south cooperation in the tourism sector in the future.

Public Transport Provision

Questions (26, 41, 47)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

26. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will report on his Department's plans to recommend improved transport provision to and from Dublin Airport across the northside of Dublin and within the greater Dublin area in the coming years up to 2015. [30907/13]

View answer

Dara Calleary

Question:

41. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the current status of the Metro North Project in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31055/13]

View answer

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

47. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for the funds that were raised in levies during the planning period of the Metro North project; and if they will be ring-fenced for other Dublin-based infrastructure projects or repaid to residents. [31031/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 41 and 47 together.

Following the comprehensive review of capital expenditure carried out in 2011 and against the background of difficult funding realities a decision was taken to defer the Metro North project together with a number of other proposed new projects. Given the limited funds available, the decision was taken that the main priority to 2016 is to protect investment made to date, to maintain safety standards, and to progress affordable projects, such as Luas Cross City, which add value to the existing network.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) is currently preparing an Integrated Implementation Plan for investment to 2018 in the GDA as required under the DTA Act 2008. This plan will address the investment needs of the Swords/Airport corridor to 2018 based on available funding and will be subject to public consultation later this year. Furthermore, I have asked my officials to prepare a Strategic Investment Framework for Land Transport which will inform future investment plans and this work which will include a review of Metro North as well as other projects is underway. Metro North is postponed not cancelled and is kept under review.

My Department is providing funding, however, to the NTA under the Sustainable Transport Measures Grants (STMG) Scheme which facilitates investment in the various QBCs, cycling/walking, safety and traffic management projects throughout the seven local authorities in the GDA region. Included under this Scheme in 2013 is funding of over €4m to Fingal County Council for 23 projects one of which is for the design of the Swords Road QBC Upgrade within the Fingal area.  In the City area, Dublin City Council is also being funded for the tender and construction of Phase 1 of the Swords Road QBC (removal of a pinch point at the Cat & Cage).

With regard to levies payable in respect of the Metro North project, the decision in relation to the payment of Section 49 development levies is a matter for the relevant planning authority in accordance with the Planning and Development Act, 2000 and I have no function in regard to the matter.

Question No. 27 answered with Question No. 6.

Sports Capital Programme Applications

Questions (28)

Michael McGrath

Question:

28. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he intends to seek applications for the next round of the Sports Capital Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31076/13]

View answer

Written answers

The most recent round of the Sports Capital Programme was launched in March last year. The Deputy will be aware that this was the first round of the Programme since 2008.   

The Department received 2,170 applications for funding under the 2012 Sports Capital Programme, the highest number of applications ever received. The allocations were announced last December. There were 648 allocations totalling €31m.  

No decision has been taken on the timing of the next round.  Any such decision will of course have to be taken in the context of the likely capital provision for the subhead in future years.

Question No. 29 answered with Question No. 8.
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