Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 41: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Irish embassies have a role in promoting Ireland as a tourism location; if he will consider seeking a more proactive role for our embassies in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29077/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The advancement of Ireland's economic interests overseas is a key priority for my Department. This includes the promotion of Ireland as a tourist destination. Both at headquarters and through our Embassy network we work closely with all of the State Agencies including Tourism Ireland, which is tasked with helping to grow overseas tourism revenue and visitor numbers on an all-Ireland basis.

In all of the markets which Tourism Ireland has identified as priorities, under the Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy Strategy, there is a Tourism Ireland representative nominated to the local market team, which is chaired by the local Ambassador and includes the other relevant State Agencies. These teams prepare annual market development plans to ensure a coherent approach to Ireland's promotional activities overseas. Throughout the year Embassies jointly run many promotional events with Tourism Ireland, including Trade Fairs, industry events, showcase events and other activities. In cities where there is no Tourism Ireland Office, our Embassies and Consulates deal with public enquiries and serve as distribution points for brochures and other printed matter promoting tourism to Ireland.

The support which Embassies can provide in the promotion of Ireland as a tourist destination is particularly evident around the St Patrick's Day celebrations which provide a unique opportunity to raise awareness of Ireland worldwide. This year, as in previous years, Embassies abroad worked closely with Tourism Ireland to co-ordinate promotional activity, including the "greening" of key international landmarks, organised by Tourism Ireland. Ambassadors co-hosted receptions and officiated at tourism related events. I might add that in non-priority markets, where Tourism Ireland do not have an office, Embassies and Consulates also play an active role in promoting the Island of Ireland as a tourism destination.