Vol. 475 No. 8
44 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if it is his policy for Ireland to have a comprehensive information service for visitors planning cycling holidays in Ireland; if so, the reason the Cycling Federation of Ireland is frequently contacted by tourists who cannot get information on cycleways, accommodation with cyclists in mind and useful organisations and contacts; and the plans, if any, he has to remedy this glaring defect in Irish tourism. [6049/97]
There are a number of strategies which are designed to achieve the ambitious growth targets set for Irish tourism for the rest of this decade and among these is the development of niche markets such as cycling holidays. Bord Fáilte, whose role is to market Ireland and the tourism products we have to offer has lead responsibility in this area and, in partnership with the industry, has been involved in the setting up of product marketing groups for our various product areas. Thus a co-operative marketing group for the cycling product has been established in conjunction with the walking product, and is known as the walking cycling Ireland group.
This group comprises 19 members who each pay a membership fee for marketing. It enables individual product suppliers to become more actively involved in how their product is marketed overseas, and Bord Fáilte informs me that a brochure has been produced listing the holidays offered by the members. The brochure is produced in four languages — English, Dutch, French and German — and is distributed to all Ireland's main overseas markets and is available in Bord Fáilte offices overseas. It is also distributed at all major consumer and trade shows in the markets in which Bord Fáilte participates.
Bord Fáilte is not, therefore, aware why visiting cyclist tourists might find it necessary, as the Deputy alleges, to contact frequently the Cycling Federation of Ireland to obtain visitor or specialist information. If, however, the Deputy can provide me with the relevant information, I will be happy to arrange to have Bord Fáilte investigate and report on the matter directly to him.
