Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy might be right. I will read a briefing note about the projects and Fáilte Ireland's grant schemes for large tourism projects. It was launched in 8 June 2016 by the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donovan, and will run from 2016 to 2020. The scheme has been designed to support large tourism projects which can demonstrate that they have significant economic potential and the ability to boost overseas visitor growth, create jobs and promote Fáilte Ireland's existing experience brands.

The first call for the grant scheme for large tourism projects closed on 22 August last year. Fáilte Ireland is currently assessing 48 applications out of a total original tranche of 115 received from the first call. First allocations are expected to be made by the board by the end of 2017. I am not sure whether local authorities can apply for these but I can find out. Fáilte Ireland intends to issue a second call for applications in November of this year, which will be advertised on the Fáilte Ireland website along with all documents required to make an application. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposals informally with the Fáilte Ireland capital funding team prior to making a formal application. There are the other Fáilte Ireland grant schemes for small tourism projects and others which are going to operate this year. What the Deputy is really suggesting is that local authorities should do it instead of Fáilte Ireland.