John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

The measures announced today are intended to benefit the regions. Consideration must be given in the course of the implementation of the Fáilte Ireland strategy to various proposals which will come forward. Some of our attractions require reinvigoration and it is our intention to ensure this happens. The intention under the product development scheme is to reinvigorate some of the older attractions and, in that context, it should be remembered that there are 7,500 of these. It is then intended to establish some new attractions.

The specifics are not spelt out in the plan but we recognise the need to have particular regard to our own culture and heritage. Attractions that might be considered include those which would be a showcase for our traditional music, song and dance. Also, to accentuate difference is to gain a greater dividend in terms of numbers from foreign shores so it might be appropriate to look back and consider emigration that has taken place from this country by having a centre similar in concept if not design to the Ellis Island project in New York. There is a number of projects that may be considered and we will seek a regional spread for them.

The formulation of new super-regions and the formation of the new regional tourism development boards have given a new impetus to regional tourism, as witnessed by substantial increases last year in visitor numbers to the regions. There was a substantial increase in the number of visitors to the south west in 2005.

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