Séamus Hughes
Ceist:24 Mr. Hughes asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the role, if any, the Northern Irish Tourism Board has in the development of a tourism brand for Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13333/96]
Written Answers. - Irish Tourism Brand.
Tom Moffatt
Ceist:32 Dr. Moffatt asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the current position regarding a tourism brand for Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13338/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 32 together.
The development of the new tourism brand for Ireland is proceeding according to schedule under the direction of an advisory group, led by Bord Fáilte's international marketing director, which includes a representative from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
The House will already be aware that Bord Fáilte had sought approaches from suitable advertising practitioners who would be capable of carrying out the strategic and creative development of the proposed new branded advertising approach. That selection process has now been completed and the contract has been awarded to an Irish based agency, Peter Owens Limited which has access to the DDB network internationally. Bord Fáilte is now in the process of selecting a design agency for the development of the visual identifylogo for the brand and a decision on this is expected this week.
Looking ahead, it is expected that the new creative and design work will be completed over the summer and that the brand will be ready for a phased launching in our international markets by the end of the year.