John Bruton
Ceist:27 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the measures, if any, his Department and Bord Fáilte are taking to promote eco tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Tourism Promotion.
Ireland's greatest natural tourism strength is, undoubtedly, our clean and green environment. We have the lowest population density in Europe with large open spaces and uncrowded roads, not to mention areas of great scenic beauty. This is a legacy of history and nature that I am determined to preserve.
This is not only a matter of principle, it is also strong commercial reasoning. Irish tourism has been a success story in recent years and our image of a clean and healthy environment has been fundamental to this. My aim of sustainable development requires that this kind of environment is preserved and, ideally, enhanced.
Bord Fáilte actively markets eco tourism under the banner of "Ireland Naturally" which is published in English, French, Dutch, German and Italian and is available in all our overseas markets. This brochure covers wetlands, bogs, national parks, nature reserves, bird-watching, etc.
Ecology holidays are being sold into Ireland by an increasing number of overseas specialist agents who have expressed satisfaction with Ireland's clean environment and natural setting.
We are not, nor do we wish to be, a mass tourism destination. In planning for the further development of tourism, priority will be given to developing new markets and products to improve the seasonal and geographic spread of tourism in Ireland. A planning framework is being created embracing tourism centres, rural tourism, special interest areas and touring routes. Investment in products for the off-peak and shoulder seasons also features prominently in this context.