Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 December 2023
99. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the steps she continues to take to ensure that tourism is given every opportunity to develop and grow in the future notwithstanding the future challenges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53555/23]
View answerIn Budget 2024, I secured funding of €216 million to continue the support for tourism development at home and amongst overseas visitors, whilst supporting continued recovery in the sector.
I maintained additional funding of €10 million for overseas marketing of Ireland as a leading holiday destination. Sustaining marketing campaigns at current levels will be crucial to ensuring that Ireland’s share of voice is maintained for longer-term success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
I also secured up to €10 million for a comprehensive programme of supports targeted at downstream tourism businesses experiencing particular trading challenges linked to the reduction in footfall to activities and attractions in regions most impacted by tourism bed stock displacement.
My Department is progressing the development of a new national tourism policy framework that will seek to mainstream sustainability – environmental, economic and societal – across the entire tourism sector. The new framework will shape how our tourism industry develops in the period to 2030. In this regard, while I want to see the sector grow, I want it to do so in a manner that is consistent with our broader sustainability targets and that ultimately ensures that Ireland will be a brand leader in sustainable tourism practices.
While initial consultations with key stakeholders were completed earlier this year, I will shortly launch a public consultation on the new framework. This will primarily be based on the guiding principles of the report of the Sustainable Tourism Working Group but will also provide an opportunity for the public to provide any other views on what should be included in the new policy framework.
The new tourism policy framework will seek to establish Ireland as a leading tourism destination, excelling in sustainable development practices that deliver better economic, social and environmental outcomes for all. I hope to have the new policy framework finalised in the first quarter of next year.
