Michael Woods
Ceist:35 Dr. Woods asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the efforts being made to develop equine tourism. [14045/95]
Written Answers. - Equine Tourism Development.
Tony Killeen
Ceist:112 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the efforts, if any, being made to develop equine tourism. [14106/95]
David Andrews
Ceist:132 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the efforts, if any, being made to develop equine tourism [14136/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 112 and 132 together.
Ireland's climate and topography offer almost perfect conditions for equestrian activities which can be availed of on a year round basis. Accordingly the EU funded Operational Programme for Tourism (1994-1999) makes specific provision for assisting the development of equine tourism, including offers of grant aid towards: (i) development of a major equestrian centre capable of holding international events with appropriate facilities; (ii) development of riding trails and upgrading of facilities at equestrian centres; (iii) improvement of existing on-site accommodation at approved residential equestrian centres actively marketing their facilities abroad.
The processing of applications for grant aid is a matter for Bord Fáilte, and Shannon Development in the case of applicants from the mid west region.
Assistance is also available under the programme to equestrian product marketing groups to promote equine tourism. I understand that one such group, which includes representatives from Northern Ireland, is currently marketing in Britain, France, Germany and the USA.
Finally, as you know, Ireland has succeeded in its bid to host the World Equestrian Games in 1998.