Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 January 2022
112. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will report on the commitments made in the Programme for Government to examine the development of national tourism trails linking ferry ports and the rail network and to work with port and ferry companies to increase the number of foot and cycle passengers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2677/22]
View answerAccess-related matters in the Programme for Government come under the remit of the Minister for Transport.
From a tourism perspective, late last year I brought to Government a report developed by the Sustainable Tourism Working Group which was established under the aegis of my Department. The report identifies a suite of actions that will promote sustainable tourism practices ahead of the development of a new national tourism policy. The successful implementation of these actions will shine a light on areas and destinations that are striving to be best in class in terms of sustainability and will provide better access to information and tools for the tourism industry and visitors to practice responsible tourism. In particular Fáilte Ireland will help to establish Ireland as a leading sustainable tourism destination by supporting Government investment in leveraging Ireland’s national capital. For example, Fáilte Ireland will work with the National Transport Authority to give appropriate consideration to linkages to ferry ports and the rail network when considering new walking trail developments and extensions to existing trails.
I understand that the Department of Transport has undertaken a review of the services and facilities available to accommodate foot and cycle passengers at our seaports and on ferry services out of Ireland. While the travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19 and the impacts of Brexit delayed this work for a time, I am informed that as restrictions ease engagement with the shipping operators on the issue of foot passengers will resume shortly.
I also understand that the Department of Transport will also engage with the passenger ports at Dublin, Rosslare and Cork on their plans for ensuring continued access to ferry services for foot passengers, working with the ferry companies in this regard. Based on the outcome of that engagement, the Department of Transport will assess what changes need to be encouraged to enhance the passenger experience and make it a more attractive option for the travelling public.
