Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014
936. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to ensure the benefits of The Gathering to the Irish tourism sector, the broader economy and to communities around the country are harnessed and that the lessons learnt during the year, links made with groups abroad and so on are not lost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1111/14]
View answerThe Gathering Ireland 2013 aimed primarily to generate additional tourist numbers and revenue in 2013 and the targets in this regard will be exceeded. However, it also aimed to have a longer-term impact including enhancing community pride and strengthening links with the diaspora. The Gathering helped to strengthen existing links with Irish communities abroad and create new connections. Tourism Ireland will continue to work with the diaspora networks and will include this global family as part of its future promotional work overseas. The networks and databases created through The Gathering will also remain as a valuable asset to Irish tourism.
A number of Gathering related events and festivals have already been identified as having potential to happen again. Similarly, the success of the Emerald Isle Classic college football game, which was a key part of the marketing campaign for the Gathering, is being built on with this year's game between Penn State – with the largest alumni association in the US - and the University of Central Florida in Croke Park. I am also examining ways to keep local authorities involved in supporting and organising events and festivals that draw tourists. While all local authorities may not be willing or able, I am keen to involve those that are.
The Gathering also made a real contribution to the local community. The Gathering network provided extensive training to more than 2,500 people and these community engagement skills will endure and be available to support other local events. Furthermore, as the Deputy will be aware, I launched a Tourism Policy Review last year and I expect that many of the lessons learnt from The Gathering will be included in the new tourism policy statement which I will finalise this year.
