asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether Bord Fáilte have any plans to intensify their promotional campaign in Europe; and, if so, if he will give details.
8.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tourist Industry.
7.
Mr. O'Donnell
Mr. O'Donnell
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will indicate the likely prospects for tourism from Europe for 1972; and the present level of bookings.
9.
Mr. O'Donnell
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will state the present trend of tourist bookings from North America and how it compares with the position a year ago.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 7, 8 and 9 together.
I am informed by Bord Fáilte that since September, 1971, the board have intensified and expanded their marketing and promotional activities in Europe. In addition to increasing the level of activity in France and Germany where Bord Fáilte already had offices, the board are extending their activities into a number of areas including Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Italy.
The level of bookings, particularly in Germany, France and Holland, is reported to be higher than last year and Bord Fáilte forecast a 5 per cent increase in overall traffic from Europe this year.
Bord Fáilte have informed me that the present indications are that traffic from North America during 1972 will not differ significantly from last year.
Mr. O'Donnell
Is the Minister aware that, while reports from Europe are very encouraging, our promotional effort on the continent is being impeded seriously by a shortage of funds for advertising and publicity and also a shortage of manpower? Does the Minister propose to make available any additional emergency or special subvention to enable an intensive campaign during the next month to be mounted in Europe, or in the countries to which he has referred?
We started this in September, 1971, with the appointment of a new manager for Europe for Bord Fáilte and since then an area agent has been appointed for Italy. He will work from Rome and will cover Italy. In addition, we will have personnel in Milan and in the next few weeks we will announce further appointments in other parts of Europe. They will be based in Amsterdam and will cover the Benelux countries. Other efforts are being made to intensify the campaign in Europe which looks very promising.
Mr. O'Donnell
Are adequate funds available?
Yes. All the funds we can make available are being made available for this effort because it is the one area which looks outstandingly promising. On the continent of Europe there is an understanding of Ireland's position.