Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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1299. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will investigate with Fáilte Ireland the new plans it has to invest further capital funding in flagship projects along the Wild Atlantic Way in the north west in order to try and increase the numbers of visitors to these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19196/19]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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Under the Tourism Action Plan 2019-2021 published by my Department, Fáilte Ireland will continue to develop and enhance tourism experiences within the framework of Project Ireland 2040. The aim is to optimise key assets for the benefit of tourism and economic development through increasing regional spread, season extension and promoting sustainable growth management.

Fáilte Ireland progresses and promotes such development around the country in line with the relevant tourism experience brands, which provide the overarching context for related capital investment in tourism product as well as for other programme supports aimed at further enhancing, animating and promoting these brands.

With specific regard to the north-west section of the Wild Atlantic Way, I believe it has very exciting potential to deliver sustainable growth for tourism, resulting in higher revenue and additional jobs. I have asked Fáilte Ireland to respond to the Deputy directly with further detail on specific plans for capital investment in this region. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.