Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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134. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the degree to which he expects to be in a position to further expand the tourism sector with a view to ensuring a longer tourism season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38019/18]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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136. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which winter tourism can be promoted throughout the country in the future with a view to maximising tourism here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38021/18]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 136 together.

Lengthening the season is an essential part of developing a sustainable tourism industry into the future.  Accordingly, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland have been very focused on not only improving the spread of tourists across the country, but also across a longer tourism season.

I have asked both agencies to reply directly to the Deputy with further information on this matter.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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135. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which Ireland continues to compete in conference tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38020/18]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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Business tourism overall, including conference tourism, has been an area of growth in recent years and one where Ireland continues to compete very successfully internationally.  The tourism agencies, which have operational responsibility for the development and promotion of this sector, have been very active in competing for and securing the hosting of international conferences in Ireland.  Fáilte Ireland is responsible for developing business tourism strategy and, internationally, it works with Tourism Ireland under the Meet in Ireland brand to support the positioning of Ireland as a world-class conference destination.

I have asked both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland to reply directly the Deputy with further information directly on further opportunities for the sector.  Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.