Vol. 518 No. 3
61 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if Bord Fáilte has established a dedicated unit with the specific job of attracting major international sporting events following the request he made in 1999; if so, the progress made to date by the unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11479/00]
In last December's budget it was indicated that funding of £2.5 million would be provided to Bord Fáilte in each of the years 2000, 2001 and 2002 to help in attracting major sporting events with tourism potential to Ireland.
Bord Fáilte confirm that it has established an international sports tourism partnership advisory group comprising representatives of sports and tourism interests to advise and assist it in attracting such events to Ireland. The group has agreed its role, discussed possible plans and operations and tasked a consultant to help develop appraisal criteria and to provide advice to aid the group in the evaluation of proposals. I understand that the next meeting of the advisory group is scheduled to take place in May.
