asked the Minister for Defence if he will make available military personnel to assist in promoting the June festival being organised by the Bundoran Tourist Development Association and thereby assist in attracting tourists to the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bundoran Festival.
The commitments which will have to be undertaken in connection with the training of recruits and reservists during the coming summer period are such that it would not be possible to make any members of the Defence Forces available to assist in promoting the June festival being organised by the Bundoran Tourist Development Association.
Is the Minister aware that a Bill has been introduced in this House for the purpose of attracting tourists? At the same time the Minister has a campaign in progress for the purpose of attracting recruits to the Army. Would it not be an ideal time to facilitate the festival so to further both objects, namely, to attract tourists and to procure recruits at the same time?
I can assure the Deputy that we would be very pleased to give any aid possible to the particular festival. I would like to remind the Deputy that this is not the only application of that kind that we have received. Having regard to the amount of planning, rehearsals and training that would be necessary, it would not be possible to make members of the Defence Forces available for this purpose in this particular year on account of the training that will be necessary for the troops in respect to the presidential inauguration.
Perhaps the Minister would bear it in mind for future years?
Yes.