Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

The aim of the Bill is simple, namely, to allow an increase in the level of funding which can be provided to the national tourism development authority, Fáilte Ireland, for capital expenditure projects from €65 million to €150 million. The proposal by Government to continue investment in tourism is justified based on the 11% rise in tourism numbers published last week. The tourism industry generated €1.3 billion for the Irish economy in 2009.

In the tourism strategy produced by Bord Fáilte for 2007 to 2013, it was envisaged that less support would be provided for accommodation but more public money would be provided for tourism infrastructure. The strategy was soundly based on a comprehensive audit of tourism attractions, activities and events. I emphatically endorse the policy. I wish to concentrate in particular on the region I come from to emphasise that point and my support for the Bill. Traditionally, the north-west region has been the poor relation in terms of tourism numbers compared to other regions. We pale into insignificance when the numbers who travel to the south-west region are compared to the north-west region. Many might ask why that is so.

There are many reasons, however, the basic tourism infrastructural deficit of the north-west region has contributed to the reduced numbers for many years. Significant spend in that regard in recent years is now addressing the problem. In counties Sligo and Leitrim in 1990 approximately eight hotels were trading. In summer 2011 there were 15 hotels, increasing bed numbers by more than 500 rooms. It is prudent for those two counties to ask what more they can offer visitors and potentially to the people of the region.

Recently, the Minister of State, Deputy Ring, visited my constituency. I compliment him on his enthusiasm and energy. On that occasion he spent the day in the constituency visiting many of the projects I will highlight today and many others as well. I wish to put on record his efforts.

Funding has been improved by Fáilte Ireland and INTERREG for a variety of projects. They will add greatly to our tourism potential. I refer to Glencar Waterfall and amenity, a new proposed interpretative centre at Drumshanbo Acres amenity, the approval of new walking routes in and around Sliabh an larann coupled with a number of other proposals such as the unique proposal to develop the"Ballroom of Romance" in Glenfarne, County Leitrim. The intention is to showcase through an interpretative centre the old style ballrooms best illustrated in Pat O'Connor's film of the same name. The success of the Arigna mining experience best demonstrates this concept with visitor numbers reaching.30,000 last year. Other similar tourism infrastructural projects previously mentioned by me will ensure that we in the regions attract numbers for the bed nights we have available.

It is most unfortunate that Lissadell House in County Sligo did not open its doors to visitors this year. As I understand, that has had an adverse effect on tourism numbers for Sligo which is disappointing, but it does emphasise clearly that to maintain and grow our tourism numbers and to fill hotel beds we must continue to invest financially in hard tourism infrastructure.

The development of walking and cycle routes will target a growing market. In counties Leitrim and Sligo the tourism market has great potential to grow. Cycling and walking specifically suits more rural areas where the potential for tourism business is difficult.

With the proximity of the north-west counties to the Border region it is essential that Fáilte Ireland targets its spend in co-operation with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board which I hope will continue to grow its tourism infrastructure in tandem with us on this side of the Border. In conclusion I wish to emphasise that targeted financial investment in key areas will pay dividends and that is why that this Bill is to be welcomed.

See this speech in context