Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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58. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress made to date on the rebranding of a midlands tourism strategy and the proposed business plan by Fáilte Ireland to serve midlands counties including Longford and Westmeath; when this plan will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29975/17]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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​My Department's role in relation to tourism lies in the area of national tourism policy.  It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism projects.  These are operational matters for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland and I do not have a direct role in relation to the development of branding strategies. 

In the final quarter of 2016 and in line with the Programme for Government commitment to develop the 'Ireland's Lakelands' brand, Fáilte Ireland commissioned a Destination and Feasibility study to ascertain the potential growth and best mechanism to unlock those areas that lie between the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East. A consortium of Colliers, Red C and DKM was engaged to conduct the study.  I am informed by Fáilte Ireland that the study is now complete and it has suggested a number of options to create a distinctive tourism brand for the midlands. The next step for Fáilte Ireland is to develop and test the available options. I understand that Fáilte Ireland is scheduled to commence this work immediately and that this will involve engagement with local stakeholders.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for further information on this matter and for direct reply to the Deputy. Please contact my office if a reply has not been received within ten days.