James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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844. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the efforts he is undertaking to promote the tourism potential of the canal network here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22170/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The role of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national policy. While the development and promotion of specific tourism sectors is a matter for the Boards and Managements of the tourism agencies of Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, the primary responsibility for the canal network falls under the remit of Waterways Ireland, which is a body under the aegis of my colleague, the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. In that regard, Waterways Ireland has a specific responsibility to promote the recreational aspect of the inland waterway network.​

In relation to the role of the tourism agencies, I have asked them to reply directly to the Deputy in this regard.  Please contact my private office if you do not hear from them within ten working days.