Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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Question 294: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress made on the commitment in the programme for Government to encourage the tourism agencies to highlight national games here to a greater degree in their promotional activities and continue the policy of attracting suitable major sporting events to Ireland. [18091/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Fáilte Ireland's International Sports Tourism Initiative is designed to attract major sporting events that can showcase Ireland as a major tourism destination. The events targeted must have the ability to generate significant international media coverage for Ireland and to deliver economic benefits in terms of tourism revenue. Recent major events supported under the initiative include the Ryder Cup Matches, Rally Ireland, the Volvo Ocean Yacht Race and the Solheim Cup.

The issue of Gaelic Games and Tourism has been discussed between GAA and Fáilte Ireland. The GAA from its most senior administrative level and throughout the regions and local areas, will be encouraged to become more aware of the tourism potential of our national games and work with the Tourism agencies on issues of information and access. Fáilte Ireland, in association with the Heritage Council, has also been engaged in discussions with the GAA in connection with the future development of the GAA museum.