Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1050 and 1111 together.

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 has commenced this work and that engagement with local stakeholders is ongoing.

No funding has been allocated by my Department for this project to date.  Any proposal to proceed with implementing a new regional brand will be subject to the outcome of the further analysis being undertaken by Fáilte Ireland and the availability of funding as part of the normal Estimates process.