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Tourism Promotion

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012

Tuesday, 24 April 2012

Ceisteanna (687)

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

780 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has finalised core financial and other resource requirements for the Gathering; if it has been launched nationally and internationally; if not, when this will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20096/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I presented proposals for "The Gathering Ireland 2013" at the Global Irish Economic Forum last October. Failte Ireland is the lead agency for the implementation of the initiative and has put in place a project team to manage the project.

The event will be the biggest tourism initiative ever staged in Ireland and will consist of a year-long programme of festivals, events and other gatherings. Last month's St. Patrick's day festivities were used for the overseas launch of "The Gathering Ireland 2013".

Key international tourism industry partners were invited to become part of The Gathering Ireland 2013 at last week's Meitheal annual tourism trade fair in the RDS. Tourism Ireland Limited will have specific responsibility for promoting "The Gathering Ireland 2013" in overseas markets. The main marketing of the event will take place in the second half of the year. The Irish tourism trade are also being briefed on progress on an ongoing basis.

A new website has also gone live with information on how people can play their part in the event. In addition, social media channels are already on stream to promote the event and engage prospective visitors.

In terms of resources, both Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland have already seconded staff to work full time in the organisation of the event and will allocate additional staff resources as required. A specific additional €5m allocation has been provided to Fáilte Ireland this year and is being ring-fenced for preparations for "The Gathering Ireland 2013" while the securing of additional resources for the event will also be targeted through engaging potential partners.

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