Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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My Department's role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national tourism policy.  It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism projects.  This is an operational matter for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland.

That said, I can advise the Deputy that the Programme for Partnership Government commits to the development of the "Ireland's Lakelands" brand.  In keeping with that commitment, Fáilte Ireland is undertaking a Destination Development and Feasibility Study to ascertain the potential for growth and the best mechanism to unlock those areas that lie between the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East, including counties that border the Shannon. The boundaries of the aforementioned initiatives will remain in place. 

The Fáilte Ireland Study will include areas of those counties that border the Shannon Waterway on both sides.  Accordingly, depending on the recommendations of the Study, those areas along the Shannon may end up benefitting from the work of more than one brand. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that Ballina and Killaloe are very much included in the area that is being reviewed. It is expected that the first draft report will be available at the end of March 2017.

Given that this is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply to the Deputy.  Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.