I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 87 together.
High on the list of visitor attractions to this country, are the personal nature of the welcome extended to our visitors, and the unspoilt, uncrowded open spaces.
My intention is to develop a sustainable tourism industry which will preserve these attributes. In doing this the policy focus will be on two areas; enhanced promotion of tourism throughout the country in the hitherto little frequented tourist destinations; and a determined effort to develop off-peak business. Earlier this year I announced a special seasonality marketing initiative involving Bord Fáilte and the industry with a total budget of £1.5 million — £800,000 of which is the State contribution and £700,000 from the industry. I have now announced a second campaign for the autumn of this year and early 1995. This again is a joint marketing effort with the industry with the State contributing almost £500,000 and matching funds coming from the industry.
Activities in the product development area to broaden and extend the spread of tourists throughout the country include: the development of canals, inland waterways and angling facilities, further development of heritage towns and a new programme to restore heritage gardens.
Another important contribution to lucrative off-season business will be the promotion of Ireland as a major international conference centre, particularly in the light of the Government's proposals in the National Development Plan for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art, convention centre here.