Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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29. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered providing State support for an enhanced Hallowe'en festival here in view of the Celtic origins of Samhain and the extent to which Hallowe'en is celebrated around the world, particularly in Britain and the US; if his attention has been drawn to the potential boost to tourism such a festival may represent in view of the large sums spent on Hallowe'en festivities in Ireland's major tourism markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47116/13]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The provision of funding for festivals and events which have associated tourism benefits is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland and it is open to the promoters of festivals to make an application to the agency for funding. Details of the application process are advertised in the national press and online on the Fáilte Ireland website.  The application process for 2014 has not yet been advertised. 

I am not aware of a specific proposal for a new Halloween festival, but I would encourage the promoters of any such festival - or indeed any new or innovative tourism proposals - to engage with Fáilte Ireland with a view to maximising the tourism potential of any such proposal.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for further information and reply.  Please contact my private office if you do not hear back from the agency within ten working days.