Wild Atlantic Way Project

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

Ceisteanna (1886, 1895)

Micheál Martin

Ceist:

1886. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason for the exclusion of the Seven Heads peninsula, including Courtmacsherry, Butlerstown and other villages and town lands from the southern leg of the Wild Atlantic Way; and if he will request Fáilte Ireland to reconsider this decision in view of the fact it is redirecting visitors away from this very picturesque and interesting coastal route and unfairly and unnecessarily disadvantaging local tourism businesses. [28857/17]

Margaret Murphy O'Mahony

Ceist:

1895. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason the Seven Heads in County Cork has been excluded from the route of the Wild Atlantic Way; if plans are in place to reverse this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29049/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1886 and 1895 together.

My Department's role in relation to tourism lies in the area of national tourism policy.  It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism projects, such as the Wild Atlantic Way.  This is an operational matter for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland.

Accordingly I have referred the question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days. 

I can assure the Deputy that the Seven Heads Peninsula is a key component of the Wild Atlantic Way in West Cork.  It is important to note that the Wild Atlantic Way is not simply a touring route but rather it is a means to guide and attract visitors, and all villages, businesses and geographic areas within close proximity of the route are in essence part of the geography of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Fáilte Ireland works with groups all along the coast and is more than happy to engage with interested parties in the Seven Heads peninsula to maximise the initiative's potential for the benefit of their community.

 The referred replies under Standing Order 42A were forwarded to the Deputies.