Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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1290. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide details on the additional funds for tourism capital provided in Budget 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46972/13]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I was pleased to welcome the announcement in Budget 2014 of an additional €8 million in capital investment for the Wild Atlantic Way.  The Wild Atlantic Way is set to be Ireland's first long-distance touring route, stretching along the Atlantic coast from Donegal to West Cork.  It is planned to develop it into an attraction of international scale, on a par with the Garden Route in South Africa or the Great Ocean Road in Australia, that will achieve greater visibility for the west coast of Ireland in overseas tourist markets.  

I am informed that this funding will ensure the completion of route signage, provide for the development and enhancement of discovery points on the route as well as other infrastructural improvements. 

The development of the Wild Atlantic Way is being handled by Fáilte Ireland and I have referred the Deputy's question to the agency for further information in relation to its future development.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.