Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 July 2014
766. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on making 2016 the year of the home gathering, a year in which efforts will be made similar to The Gathering 2013 but this time aimed at the domestic market so that persons would have even more reasons to holiday at home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32344/14]
View answerA new draft Tourism Policy Statement was published by my predecessor earlier this month which includes the proposal that “The tourism agencies will evaluate opportunities for future themed years, similar to the successful Gathering.” I hope to have the Policy Statement finalised later this year.
The question of a Home Gathering can be considered in that context but, for now, I have no such plans. However, I can assure the Deputy, that, as in recent years, Fáilte Ireland will continue to run Home Holidays Marketing Campaigns to foster growth in the domestic market and to encourage home holidays.
