Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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14. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on the success of the Wild Atlantic Way; the investment timelines over the next few years, in terms of initiatives in the Galway area; the boost to the hotel, bed and breakfast, and hospitality sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39237/15]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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​2015 is set to be a record year for Irish tourism with overseas figures showing growth of 12.5% for the first nine months of the year over the same period last year.  The Wild Atlantic Way, now coming to the end of the second full season in operation, is contributing to the increase in both visitor numbers and spend in the West.  Domestically, awareness of the Wild Atlantic Way is very high but internationally it is still a developing brand.  The operational development of the Wild Atlantic Way is a matter for the Board and Management of Failte Ireland and I have asked them to provide further detail directly to the Deputy.

However, the Deputy may be interested to note that the agency delivered the Wild Atlantic Way Expo in Galway in October, at which 60 overseas buyers participated in Familiarisation Trips along the Wild Atlantic Way and convened in Galway for two days of business meetings and workshops with over 100 Irish tourism suppliers.

Fáilte Ireland is also investing over €4.5M in developing the Wild Atlantic Way in Galway.  Investment includes the development of the Signature Discovery Point at Derrygimlagh, the Connemara Cultural Centre at Pearse's Cottage in Rosmuc, Phase 1 of the Connemara Greenway, remedial works at Mainland Discovery Point and Embarkation Points, installation of Photo Points and Branding at all Discovery Points, including the four island locations and the Connemara Interpretation Plan.

For 2016 the focus will be on developing compelling visitor experiences, encouraging an increased length of stay and on extending the season into the shoulder months.  This will involve working with tourism businesses, local communities and other key stakeholders to develop experiences to sell internationally.