Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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89. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which potential growth opportunities for business tourism in this country continue to be identified. [51324/23]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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As the Deputy is aware, my Department's role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national tourism policy and implementation of that policy is a matter for the tourism agencies, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, as well as certain other bodies.

My Department is progressing the development of a new national tourism policy that will seek to establish Ireland as a leading tourism destination, excelling in sustainable development practices that deliver better environmental, social and economic outcomes for all. Opportunities for balanced growth in all areas of the tourism ecosystem will be considered as part of this ongoing work.

With regards to the particular matter of identifying growth opportunities for business tourism, the Deputy will be aware that this is an operational matter for both Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland through the “Meet in Ireland” business tourism brand for the island of Ireland.

I have referred the Deputy's question to both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland and asked them 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.