Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his vision for the development of the country's maritime heritage, with specific reference to community dividends from tourism associated with lighthouses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12870/13]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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My Department's role in respect of tourism lies primarily in the area of national policy. It is not involved in the administration of tourism-related funding programmes or in support to specific tourism sectors, which are the responsibility of Fáilte Ireland. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for further information and direct reply. As the Deputy may be aware, the integrated marine plan for Ireland published by the Government in July 2012 contains an action that the appropriate Departments and agencies will utilise existing built and natural assets, for example, lighthouses and offshore islands, to develop tourism products and services. Work in this area is ongoing and will be particularly supported by the development of the wild Atlantic way initiative which will highlight all aspects of the maritime experience, heritage and culture.

I am advised that the Commissioners of Irish Lights are currently in discussion with the Special EU Programmes Body about a cross-Border project to develop the tourism potential of lighthouses along the northern coast. Fáilte Ireland, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and a number of other public bodies are supporting the Commissioners of Irish Lights in respect of the project, which will facilitate the visitor to explore the best of our land and seascapes. I look forward to seeing this project progressed by the participating bodies at an early date.

Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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There are no supplementaries relating to this question.