James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 656: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the action he is taking to improve the structures in place to promote tourism, particularly with regard to the regional tourism boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27260/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Fáilte Ireland was established under the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003. Its primary functions are the development of quality tourism product, domestic tourism marketing, tourism standards, enterprise support, capability building and human resource development for the tourism industry.

Tourism Ireland Limited, was incorporated in December 2000 and is accountable to the North South Ministerial Council. The primary remit of the company is to promote the island of Ireland as a tourist destination in overseas markets.

The close working relationship between the organisations is strengthened by the CEO of Fáilte Ireland sitting on the Board of Tourism Ireland. The CEO of Tourism Ireland regularly attends the meetings of the Fáilte Ireland board on an observer basis. The Fáilte Ireland Authority also meets the Board of Tourism Ireland to discuss issues of mutual interest. Furthermore, the CEOs and senior management teams in Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland work hard to foster closer working relationships between the agencies.

The State agencies concerned constantly review and monitor their operations to avoid any duplication and explore opportunities for synergies and sharing of services. I am aware that they are already working to share services, where possible, with a view to driving economies.

Shannon Development serves as the Regional Tourism body for the Shannon Region. Dublin Tourism, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fáilte Ireland, is the regional tourism body for the Dublin region. Its structure, together with the structure of regional bodies for the other tourism regions, is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland. I have referred this aspect of the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.