Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2019
895. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the budgetary steps that have been taken to support the tourism sector specifically in the midlands and western region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44544/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTourism has received an allocation of €186 million in Budget 2020, up 10% on the 2019 allocation. Furthermore an extra €7m was provided to support the industry in 2019.
With regard to the various regions, Fáilte Ireland develops and promotes their tourism potential in line with the relevant tourism experience brands – namely Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Ireland's Ancient East, the Wild Atlantic Way and the Dublin brand – which are designed to boost tourism and drive visitor growth throughout the country, with consequential benefits for the local economy and jobs right across Ireland, including the midlands and western region. Tourism Ireland promotes the island of Ireland overseas.
Fáilte Ireland also provides targeted capital investment in attractions and other tourism infrastructure throughout the regions, consistent with the objectives of Project Ireland 2040 to help support and grow tourism. Priority areas for tourism capital investment include the development and enhancement of tourist attractions and activity-based tourism to provide the type and quality of experience that visitors are seeking. This capital investment is further supported by Fáilte Ireland current investment in complementary programme supports – including festivals and events, business supports and training – aimed at enhancing, animating and promoting the regional tourism experience brands.
I have asked the two tourism agencies Tourism Ireland, in regard to overseas tourism marketing, and Fáilte Ireland, in regard to regional tourism development and domestic tourism promotion, to provide the Deputy with more detail. Accordingly I have referred the Deputy's question to the two tourism agencies for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
