Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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602. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider an application for funding by a group (details supplied) which has applied for funding under the Fáilte Ireland major capital grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29609/16]

Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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603. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the Fáilte Ireland major capital scheme will be announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29611/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 602 and 603 together.

The primary role of my Department in relation to tourism lies in the area of national tourism policy.  It is not directly involved in the funding or development of individual projects, which is a matter for the tourism agencies.  The assessment of any applications for funding made in respect of individual grant schemes, including funding for tourism capital, is an operational matter for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland.

I launched Fáilte Ireland's new Capital Grants Scheme for Large Tourism Projects on 8th June 2016.  The scheme provides for investment to develop new, or boost existing, tourism experiences and attractions across Ireland.  The scheme will run from 2016-2020.  The first call for applications closed on 22nd August 2016.  Fáilte Ireland is currently assessing the applications received under this scheme. Further details of the scheme may be found on the Fáilte Ireland website at the following link:

I have asked Fáilte Ireland to reply directly to the Deputy with any further information about the process.  Please contact my private office if you not hear within ten working days.