Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is very cheeky for a Kerryman to come out with such a statement. I recall clearly the day in the summer of 2017 when we visited that beautiful part of west Cork to see exactly what local communities were proposing and how the Wild Atlantic Way could benefit them even more into the future. I also holidayed in west Cork with my wife and children this summer and spent a really lovely day in Union Hall and Glandore. I was there during a period of some really fine weather and the place looked outstanding. All of the way to Ballydehob, Schull, Baltimore, Skibbereen, Clonakilty, Crookhaven and the Mizen was looking fantastic. It is an amazing part of the world and we are very lucky to be living so close to it.

Tthere is a review under way. To be clear, whereas both the Minister, Deputy Ross, and I are responsible for bringing forward policy on tourism, its actual implementation, promotional activities and the management of tourism affairs on the ground are the responsibility of the agencies, Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland. In this case, Fáilte Ireland is responsible for the management of the Wild Atlantic Way. It has undertaken a route review which I understand is due to be sent to the local authorities in the coming week. There will then be further discussion and a collaborative approach with local authorities in agreeing to changes that may come. There will be an opportunity at local level for each community along the Wild Atlantic Way to have its voice heard through its local authority in collaboration with Fáilte Ireland.

When I was there during the summer, I was looking at the logistics and various factors at play in changing the official route. I see all sides of the argument and certainly think there is scope for some changes. There are people who are far better qualified, particularly in the engineering field, who would have to be consulted in that regard. The key point to remember is that even though in most cases the specific route can only pass through one place along the coast, although there are spurs, the level of activity in proximity to the route is key. Visitors are encouraged not to stick to one linear route but to enjoy the experience in the general area. That is where the opportunity arises in west Cork and where I am from in County Kerry. Even if an area is not on the route, if it is in close proximity to it, it is in line to benefit from the Wild Atlantic Way experience and its marketing around the world. The approach taken by Fáilte Ireland is the correct one in collaborating with the local authorities and ensuring local voices are heard. Ultimately, when there is more than one voice in looking for different things, decisions have to be made. My understanding from discussing the issue with Fáilte Ireland is that decisions will be made in as collaborative a way as possible. I will be keeping in close contact with Fáilte Ireland.

At local level, there will be an opportunity, through Cork County Council, for local communities to engage further. I look forward to the outcome of the review, but it is critical to emphasise that, regardless of what the specific route will be or what changes may or may not be made, there is a great opportunity for all communities to benefit from the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether the route runs one way or another is secondary. The primary opportunity is to enhance local offerings, the experience of these beautiful parts of County Cork and for communities to build a sustainable tourism sector.