Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 16: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the way his Department has helped support and develop sustainable tourism here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10820/08]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The High Level Strategy of my Department in relation to Tourism includes a commitment to "support the sustainable growth of the tourism industry...". In line with the national Sustainable Development Strategy, the principles of Sustainable Development are increasingly permeating public policy including policy on Tourism which is one of our main economic sectors. Sustainable Development incorporates three principles — Social Cohesion, Economic Prosperity and Environment. These principles are incorporated in the current guiding Vision for Irish Tourism which is set out in the Report of the Tourism Policy Review Group, New Horizons for Irish Tourism: An Agenda for Action.

Geographically, Tourism is widely spread and, in some, otherwise undeveloped areas, is the main source of employment. The Government has a strong regional orientation which guides the activities of the Tourism Agencies in the promotion and development of tourism. Fáilte Ireland, works closely with the sector, to help improve the quality of training and also to encourage the industry to provide good conditions and career prospects to its employees. Tourism Ireland, in its international marketing role, promotes the island of Ireland along sustainable principles, with an emphasis on a wide geographical and seasonal spread of tourism business.

The physical environment is a core tourism resource and the tourism sector is becoming increasingly conscious of that. Under its Agreed Programme, the Government is committed to placing greater emphasis on the protection, conservation, interpretation and access to Ireland's natural and built heritage. The overarching challenge for the sector is to recognise that, in the long term, competitiveness depends on sustainability. Ultimately, of course, it is the industry itself that must meet the challenges and seize the opportunities generated by the sustainability agenda.

The introduction of more efficient use of resources such as energy, more recycling and better environmental management generally, provides an opportunity to significantly reduce the running costs of tourism businesses and, thus, enhance competitiveness. In conclusion, I would also note that my Department and the tourism Agencies take an active part in a wide range of groups and fora focusing on sustainability.