Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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357. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to drive policy towards the development of a coastal walkway of Ireland with an emphasis initially on the Atlantic economic corridor and the Wild Atlantic Way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14524/18]

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 development. It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism projects, such as the Wild Atlantic Way. These are operational matters for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland.

I am aware that Fáilte Ireland's Experience Brands have been developed to present different parts of Ireland as compelling tourism experiences of scale and singularity internationally. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Ancient East and the Dublin brand are overarching brands under which destinations and individuals can trade collectively with greater visibility and clarity of message in the international marketplace.

I understand that Fáilte Ireland is currently tendering for a pilot study to look at potential options to link the existing Kerry Way and Dingle Way walking trails with a view to informing a full route feasibility study in respect of a coastal trail along the Wild Atlantic Way . The tender for the pilot study has just been published this week.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for their attention and direct reply to the Deputy. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.