Micheál Martin
Ceist:37 Mr. Martin asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if he has been able to secure any new incoming tourism operators from the USA and Europe to operate in the Irish tourism market. [16854/95]
Written Answers. - Tourism Operators.
I understand from Bord Fáilte that there are now over 200 tour operators operating from the US market to Ireland. Of these 34 could be described as new to Ireland as they have introduced their programmes either this year or last year following encouragement and support from Bord Fáilte and other Irish tourism interests. Bord Fáilte is currently negotiating with a further two major tour operators in connection with the introduction of new programmes to Ireland in 1996.
The number of tour operators in Europe offering programmes to Ireland has shown significant increases over recent years and 45 new operators attended the Continental European Workshop in June last.
Overall, Bord Fáilte's strategy is to encourage existing tour operators to increase their level of promotion for Ireland and where there are gaps to encourage selective strengthening of the tour operator base.