Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will investigate the potential to develop a National Heritage Coastal Trail based on the Wales Coast Path (details supplied). [35513/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Preliminary estimates indicate that 743,000 people engaged in walking and hiking while on holiday in Ireland during 2011, with an associated spend of €649m. Therefore the walking product is an important part of our tourism industry. 

I am advised that, over the coming months, Fáilte Ireland plans to undertake extensive research into the potential and perceptions of all adventure tourism activities in a number of key overseas markets. Analysis of consumer preferences regarding activities such as walking will be central to this research. This is turn will inform any proposals for the further development of new or existing walking trails.  

I would advise the Deputy that my Department's role in relation to tourism is primarily concerned with national policy, and it is not engaged in the development of particular sectors of tourism. As the matter raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if a reply is not received within ten working days.