Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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29. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the establishment of a forum for those local authorities, stakeholders and other interested parties along the Wild Atlantic Way; if he will discuss ways in which the Wild Atlantic Way can make the greatest contribution to the local economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36636/14]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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While my Department provides the capital funding for investment in tourism projects such as the Wild Atlantic Way it is not directly involved in developing or managing them. The development of the Wild Atlantic Way is a matter for the Board and management of Fáilte Ireland.

The route of the Wild Atlantic Way was developed with the assistance of tourism consultants and regional steering groups. The steering groups comprised Fáilte Ireland, Local Authorities, local Leader and Development companies and other key agencies such as Údarás Na Gaeltachta, the Western Development Commission and others as relevant to each particular region.  In addition Fáilte Ireland carried out a series of community briefings along the route which were well attended by local tourism operators, stakeholders and community representatives.  The continued involvement of communities along the western seaboard will be critical to the success of the Wild Atlantic Way project.

It is not proposed to establish a formal forum as Fáilte Ireland continues to engage with local authorities, tourism operators, local communities and other stakeholders to ensure that they can take full advantage of the economic opportunities offered by the route.