While my Department provides the capital funding for investment in tourism propositions such as the Wild Atlantic Way, it is not directly involved in developing or managing these, as this is an operational matter for the Board and management of Fáilte Ireland. That said, the provision of basic public facilities such as lay-bys, toilets, seating and rubbish facilities, is primarily the responsibility of Local Authorities rather than Fáilte Ireland. Indeed, the recent tourism policy statement "People, Place and Policy: Growing Tourism to 2025" highlights the central role of local authorities in developing tourism in their areas, as much through such core services as through development of tourism infrastructure.
The Government is fully committed to the development of tourism in Donegal, which forms an integral part of the Wild Atlantic Way. In addition to the funding already invested in signage on the route and in discovery points such as Sliabh Liag, I recently announced an allocation of €299,000 by Fáilte Ireland to the Commissioners of Irish Lights to develop a new visitor facility building on a site adjacent to Fanad Head Lighthouse. The project will incorporate a new car park as well as facilities for visitors, a ticket desk and an interpretation area. Fáilte Ireland is also in discussion with Donegal County Council as to the future development of facilities at Malin Head as a signature discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way.
