Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:22 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the aspects of tourism for which he has official responsibility and for which he is accountable to Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ministerial Responsibilities.
As Minister for Tourism and Trade I have responsibility for national tourism policy including identifying development priorities, and for monitoring the implementation of tourism policy. I also seek to influence other aspects of public policy which are the responsibility of Government colleagues for the benefit of tourism development.
My specific powers are set out in the Tourist Traffic Acts 1931-1987, and relate mainly to policy matters specifically concerning the development of Irish tourism. My statutory powers include the provision of grant-in-aid to Bord Fáilte for the development and promotion of tourist traffic, appointment of board members etc. I am also responsible to the Dáil for the provision of an annual grant-in-aid to CERT, and to SFADCo in respect of tourism traffic promotion.
However, day to day business of Bord Fáilte, CERT and SFADCo including grant approvals, registration of individual premises and operators, details of expenditure etc., are matters for the relevant boards, or council in the case of CERT, in accordance with statute and — or memoranda and articles of association.