Niamh Smyth
Ceist:531. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department provides funding to a body (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43188/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 22 October 2019
Ceisteanna (531, 532)
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:532. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department has provided funding for an event (details supplied) which is due to take place here in April 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43189/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 531 and 532 together.
My Department’s role in relation to tourism is primarily to develop national tourism policy. The implementation of that policy is a matter for the tourism agencies, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, as well as other bodies.
With regard to events, Ireland's hosting of international participative and spectator events brings overseas visitors and associated revenues to the country and often also provides a media platform to showcase our qualities as an event destination. Accordingly, I am very supportive of the ongoing efforts of the tourism agencies to attract and support such events. Although my Department provides funding to the agencies, the question of State financial support for specific events is a matter for agency decision, based on their assessment of a detailed business case and the costs and benefits accruing.
With specific regard to the event and organisation mentioned by the Deputy, I have asked Fáilte Ireland to reply directly to the Deputy with information on any tourism-related supports available from it. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A