Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. I agree that Tourism Ireland is making a genuine effort to bring tourism to every part of this island and to generate co-operation between North and South. Nevertheless, does the Minister agree that there is an imbalance between the number of tourists who visit the areas south and north of a line from Dublin to Galway, favouring the area south of that line?

Does the Minister agree that for a number of years significant investment has been made in accommodation for tourists? Tax incentives have been utilised and hotels have been built in many areas, which is welcome. One can now travel to any part of Ireland and stay in a comfortable hotel. However, I am concerned with the condition of major tourists attractions, particularly in the north west, such as the Giant's Causeway and, in County Donegal, Glenveagh, the Glebe Gallery and Dunfanaghy Workhouse. Many of these attractions have been operating for a number of years and are in urgent need of upgrading to European standards. Are schemes envisaged, like the tax concessions scheme for accommodation, to enable us to bring these tourist attractions up to standard?

Every region needs what I would call a flagship attraction that would attract 100,000 or more visitors per year, such as Seaworld in Dingle in the Minister's county. The north west needs a major attraction. Are there plans or incentives to develop such a centre?

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