Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

That can lead to a positive outcome.

I want to mention another issue before I conclude. I have been trying to lay serious emphasis on cultural tourism and the bringing together of all the cultural bodies. Approximately 3 million people visited our cultural tourism institutions in 2008. That is a significant figure which demonstrates clearly that all of our small and major museums, art galleries and music festivals have a major impact. Culture is one of this country's easiest "sells". It is the automatic touchstone people have to Ireland's tradition. Our music, art, drama and actors are being feted throughout the world. They have been hugely successful in all fields of their activities. That is a more coherent emphasis that I want to promote in terms of a cultural tourism package.

Other speakers referred to the work of Good Food Ireland which, incidentally, has done incredible work with the Volvo Ocean Race. I understand its representatives have located in all of the stops and have had huge success promoting Irish food. The investment by Fáilte Ireland in that particular project has gained much added value in terms of what we can achieve.

In case Senator Coffey thinks I would not refer to it, I wish to say that Waterford Crystal is a significant issue to Ireland and as other Senators have said, it is one of the key brands identified with this country. I send out the message that I remain available, as does the Tánaiste, to talk to KPS Capital. We are anxious to meet with its representatives to determine how we can now work with them for an investment in some smaller scale manufacturing of a high end quality that would enhance a very good international quality tourist trail and invest in a tourism facility as well, not alone to sustain what already exists but, as others have said, with a view to turning it into an iconic visitor centre which would easily double the numbers and, in time, go beyond the 1 million figure. That work must be done but we are waiting to meet with KPS Capital representatives to see where they stand on their future prospects for investment in Waterford Crystal and are willing to support that in any way we can.

I thank the Senators for putting down the motion. I am delighted to have had the opportunity to come to the House to listen to the debate and I look forward to future debates with the Senators.