Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Dooley and reiterate that the Government recognises the importance of these heritage sites. I acknowledge that this is a time of great uncertainty for many of the employees of Shannon Heritage but I understand that Shannon Group is continuing to engage with the staff on this matter and that in the context of any future change to the ownership and operation of the businesses, it will be mindful of the need to secure the long-term viability of the business and the interests of Shannon Heritage employees.

I assure Senator Dooley that my Department will continue to support the Shannon Group in its engagement with the relevant authorities to secure the future of Shannon Heritage. There are clear synergies between the Shannon Heritage business and the tourism strategies being developed within the county and region. Clare County Council is seeking to develop a whole-of-county tourism experience in which Shannon Heritage sites like Bunratty Castle and Folk Park can play an integral part. Shannon Airport is also relevant here. Its services to 25 destinations, with 107 weekly flights planned for this summer will really help the tourism drive, and the resumption of transatlantic flights will not just benefit the region but also these particular tourism sites. I look forward to continuing engagement with Shannon Group to secure the future of the Shannon Heritage business and the staff employed there.