Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Pender for the presentation. The Government's published integrated marine plan for enhancing our ocean wealth fits into the greater plan and all coastal and rural TDs will support it.

The agency working with the private sector was mentioned. Is there any buy-in from the private sector? Has it been forthcoming? The need for it is enormous.

I come from Ardfert, just alongside Banna Strand in north Kerry, and I am always struck by the stark difference between the promotion of the Ring of Kerry, in the south of the county, compared to lack of promotion of any ring in north Kerry. There are fantastic areas from Banna Strand to Beale beach, north Kerry hill right up to the mouth of the Shannon. While there might be support for this, there does not seem to be any link-up between communities, the private sector and agencies to develop something that would complement the growth of Kerry rather than just south Kerry.

The Wild Atlantic Way is a great project, covering the entire west coast from Donegal to west Cork. I am open to correction but it is my view that way should be linked with the angling and island visiting. It might be happening in some areas but I am not aware of it. If we could have a joined-up approach, people will go on a walking tour along the west coast and will enjoy the facilities to take them offshore to the islands or for sea angling. That would be hugely beneficial.

The reopening of disused railway lines for tourism purposes has been contentious in many areas. The lines are owned by the public and there is usually a wrong approach to adjoining farm owners. There must be a way around because these offer great potential for cycling and walking.

It was interesting that there is a hope to double the value of the coastal marine asset. It is encouraging because it is very beautiful and if it is marketed properly internationally, there could be benefits for everyone in the sector. It was mentioned that coastal communities have been decimated by the collapse of the inshore fishing fleet. It is of huge importance this is developed to give an income that is badly needed to those in coastal communities, addressing the huge emigration from those areas.

Never in my life has it been more important to create some way to get people to spend money, particularly in the west and south of Ireland. Is there any link with the coast of the Six Counties and then on to the east coast? There are some beautiful areas, such as County Down, County Antrim, the Giant's Causeway, right around to the west coast. What is the connection with the corresponding organisation in the Six Counties?