Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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40. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has been in contact with the Department of Justice and Equality for the purpose of improving the tourist experience in Dublin city centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27350/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I take it that the Deputy is referring to incidents of anti-social behaviour and other problems on the streets of Dublin city centre, which are matters for the Minister for Justice and Equality, given her responsibility for policing.In my capacity as Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I am aware of the negative impact such incidents can have on visitors’ holiday experience and on their impressions of our country.  I have previously raised my concerns with both the Minister for Justice and Equality and the Dublin City Manager and I understand that the Garda Síochána and the civic authorities in Dublin are working to tackle these problems.   

The Deputy may also be interested to know that in the unfortunate event that tourists are the victims of crime, they can avail of the services of Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS).  ITAS, which is part funded by Fáilte Ireland as well as the Department of Justice and Equality, provides a specialist service offering immediate support and assistance to tourists who are victimised while visiting Ireland. In relation to improving the broader tourist experience, following the report of the Grow Dublin Taskforce, the tourism agencies, the City Council and the tourism industry are working together to refresh the tourism offering in the capital.