Seanad debates

Wednesday, 27 November 2002

National Tourism Development Authority Bill, 2002: Second Stage.

 

Over the past year or so, we have been involved in the most radical overhaul of our national tourism agencies in decades. They are embarking upon one of the most fundamental reviews ever to take place in the history of the industry. Over the past 11 years we have seen an investment in Irish tourism in the region of €4.3 billion between the public and private sectors, and this was a worthwhile investment. From small beginnings tourism today is a major player in the economy. It is our second most important industry, directly employing 150,000 people and generating foreign revenue earnings in excess of €4 billion and €1.2 billion in domestic earnings. Tourism is set to become our largest industry in the not too distant future. Therefore, it is appropriate at this time to take stock, consider the product we have developed and decide where we go from here.

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