Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister's comments. I fully agree with her in regard to the potential in both Cavan and Monaghan for further tourism development, increased economic activity and the creation of much-needed employment. The Shannon master plan is very welcome. Key to the successful implementation of this strategy is the development of new amenities and attractions. The boardwalk trail on the Fermanagh side of the Cuilcagh mountain is a fabulous attraction. To further realise the potential of the Cavan Burren Park area and the upper Shannon region, the discovery centre at the Shannon Pot is essential, both for domestic and international tourism. The Shannon Pot is unique. There is no other such location, so we must market and sell it in a very positive manner.

Today, the Minister and I welcomed the announcement of further funding for the restoration of the Ulster Canal, a welcome, all-Ireland, cross-Border project. Harkening back to the early 1990s, Fianna Fáil was in government at the time and developed the Shannon-Erne waterway through the restoration of the Ballinamore-Ballyconnell canal. When we were initiating those projects we were told that it would not be possible to achieve them, but it was. They now play a critical part in the tourism product, not just locally but also nationally. I hope that during the Minister's term of office she will ensure that some of the areas that did not realise their potential in the past will have the opportunity to grow their tourism product and attract more visitors.

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