Vincent P Martin (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire go dtí an Teach. The Bill is technical in substance and quite straightforward. Its main purpose is to permit the Minister to increase the aggregate level of advances that can be made to the National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland, out of capital moneys approved by the Oireachtas. This funding is of use in supporting enterprises and projects related to the development of tourist traffic and tourism facilities and services.

Tourism is a hugely important indigenous and labour-intensive sector that generates substantial export earnings and tax revenues. Apart from its economic value, tourism also plays an important role in promoting Ireland's image abroad and generating a positive impression of Irish people and our landscape and culture for visitors, which no doubt plays a big part in attracting tourists. Fáilte Ireland has used the platforms for growth strategy to drive development in specific areas. For example, using funding provided by the Government, Fáilte Ireland has provided €90 million to 20 locations throughout the country for water-based activities, which are key visitor attractions.

In respect of sustainable tourism, Ireland's commitment to pursue a climate-neutral economy will help us to realise our ambition to be among the world's leaders in sustainable tourism. The Minister has initiated the development of a new tourism policy that seeks to mainstream sustainability.It will seek to support sustainable development in communities while protecting our environment and natural resources with a greater spread of demand across the full year. In addition, the creation of an all-Ireland walkways development plan to establish long-distance off-road walking and cycling routes as well as to promote sustainable outdoor adventure and tourism and develop food trades, to name but two examples, will build on our reputation of high-quality produce, which is renowned throughout the world.

I think of how the roll-out of supports would really help my home county of Kildare. Our walkways and canals are second to none. We have three racecourses in County Kildare as well as the Irish National Stud and Gardens. We have huge potential, which is largely untapped, to reach a global audience by celebrating our patron saint, Saint Brigid. We have our forests and bogs. Now, of late, we can add Féile Liam O'Flynn, the annual music festival in Kill and Naas, which celebrates the legacy of Liam O'Flynn but also the legacy and celebration of music in County Kildare. That has reached a national audience and it is hoped it will reach an international one in the years to come. That is just one microcosm of an example in my own county. I am sure other counties have that rich bank of heritage and tourism potential and attractions. I welcome, support and commend the Bill on Second Stage.