asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he will now instruct the state-sponsored bodies, under the aegis of his Department, which are represented on the National Tourism Council to withdraw from the council in view of its recent decision on landing rights; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Tourism Council.
20.
Mr. O'Donnell
The National Tourism Council is a voluntary, representative and advisory body and its membership comprises organisations, in both the public and private sectors, which are substantially involved in the promotion and development of tourism.
The State bodies under the aegis of my Department which are involved in the tourist industry are represented on the council. Decisions in relation to membership of the council are matters for the boards of these bodies and, in the circumstances, I do not propose to issue an instruction as suggested by the Deputy. The value of the National Tourism Council must be considered on the basis of its overall contribution to Irish tourism rather than on an expression of opinion on a single item.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that the recent decision of the National Tourism Council regarding the landing rights issue has weakened the Government's case, as it is being used as propaganda in the States? Would the Minister make sure that the American Government and the negotiators really understand that the National Tourism Council is not truly representative of the national tourism industry at all? If State companies were to withdraw their membership it would be the best way of convincing them.
The American authorities are well aware, as we are all aware here, that the National Tourism Council is a voluntary, non-statutory body. I deplored the announcement and advertisement of the decision advocating Dublin rights and I would deplore the announcement of any such decision as taking from the Government's negotiating position. That stand and that attitude has been made quite clear.
Can the Minister state whether or not the council were asked for their considered and honest opinion on this?
I said on a previous occasion in the House——
And having got their honest opinion the Minister deplored it.
——that a body such as this body are entitled to make their views known.
Apparently they are not.
The Deputy will appreciate the distinction I made that their announcement, publication and advertisement on this matter in advance of negotiations is to be deplored because it takes from the Government's negotiating position but I do not deny them the right to have their views on this particular matter.