Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:353 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if he will include a member from the Irish Restaurant Association on the Tourism Council in view of that sector's contribution to the Irish tourist industry. [820/94]
Written Answers. - Tourism Council Appointment.
When I set up the Tourism Council in September 1993, I was concerned that the industry should have a strong presence, while at the same time keeping the size of the council within manageable proportions.
The 24 member council includes seven representatives from the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC), including its chairman and chief executive. The confederation is made up of many industry bodies, including the Restaurants' Association of Ireland. The ITIC members of the council represent the interests of ITIC members generally.
The council is working well and I believe that a good balance in membership has been sruck. I am also satisfied that the interests of the Restaurants' Association can be adequately represented within the existing structures. I would not, of course, rule out the possibility of direct representation by the association on the council in the future.