James Bannon (Fine Gael)

Yes, and we have other literary figures such as Maria Edgeworth. The boundaries of the tourism authorities should be redrawn and a midlands region tourism authority created. We have a different product from County Wicklow and the east coast. As far as funding in the Midlands East Regional Tourism Authority is concerned, the midlands always appears to be on the hind tit. I ask the Minister to allay our genuine concerns and address this issue as soon as possible.

The River Shannon crosses two provinces and is one of the greatest assets of the midlands region. While it has been slowly developed, it has major potential to attract European visitors. Our lakes and rivers should also be promoted to attract anglers.