John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 263: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the initiatives his Department is taking, both in sport and tourism, to develop walkways and to promote walking holidays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5318/08]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Trails Office (NTO) established in the Irish Sports Council, has responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the Irish Trails Strategy, a cross-sectoral initiative that seeks to enhance the health, well being and quality of life of all Irish residents and attract many more visitors from around the world. The NTO developed the Strategy with the aim of creating and maintaining a world-class trails network that is safe, accessible and easy to use. The NTO works with guidance from the National Trails Advisory Council, which includes representatives from a range of State and other bodies.

In relation to tourism, in accordance with the provisions of subsection (1) of section 8 of the National Tourism Development Authority Act, 2003, it is a day to day matter for Fáilte Ireland to encourage, promote and support either inside or outside the State (a) the development of tourism traffic within and to the State and (b) the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. Details of Fáilte Ireland's initiatives in relation to the development and promotion of walking facilities and walking holidays are set out in its website www.failteireland.ie.