Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
81. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which Counties Offaly and Laois will benefit from continued development of the Hidden Heartlands and Ancient East experiences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17721/18]
View answerWith regard to County Offaly, parts of the county close to the Shannon are included in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands - the new tourism experience brand for the Midlands region. The focus of this new brand is the Midlands' rich natural assets, including lakes, blueways and walkways, encouraging visitors to be 'active in nature' and to explore the region off the beaten track through a range of outdoor activities.
County Offaly also comes within the geographical scope of Ireland's Ancient East experience brand, which focuses on the historical and cultural offering. I understand that Fáilte Ireland has intentionally built in this overlap to allow local tourism operators decide for themselves whether to leverage one or both of these experience brands - whatever best suits their business.
As regards county Laois, I share Fáilte Ireland's view that this county, with its wealth of historic and cultural assets, is best served by continued inclusion in Ireland’s Ancient East. Indeed, I understand that this view is shared by other industry stakeholders locally.
In both Laois and Offaly, as in other counties in the region, I know that Fáilte Ireland is working closely with local tourism businesses and other stakeholders as part of its ongoing trade engagement, to help them position their offering within and gain maximum leverage the relevant experience brand. Fáilte Ireland also funds capital developments and festivals in these counties, as well as providing additional supports that benefit the counties, their tourism businesses and other stakeholders.
As the matters raised by the Deputy are operational matters for the board and management of Fáilte Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's question to the agency for further detail and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
