While my Department provides the capital funding for investment in tourism projects such as the Wild Atlantic Way, it is not directly involved in developing or managing these projects. The role of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national policy. The development of the Wild Atlantic Way is an operational matter for the Board and management of Fáilte Ireland. I have asked the agency to reply directly to the Deputy in this regard and I would ask you to contact my private office if you do not hear from Fáilte Ireland within ten working days.
However, I am informed by Fáilte Ireland that in December 2014 funding of €990,000 was allocated by the agency towards the development of this project. Planning permission has been granted and works commenced in July 2015. The works programme, which is being implemented by Galway County Council, is now well advanced and full completion is expected in advance of the 2016 tourist season.
In addition to a new car park and related infrastructure, the project involves presenting for visitors the remarkable stories of the Marconi wireless station and the Alcock and Brown first transatlantic flight as part of an interpreted looped walk on the actual site where the events happened.
I look forward to the completion of this project in 2016 which will add substantially to the tourism assets of Galway and the Wild Atlantic Way.
