George Lawlor (Wexford, Labour)
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31. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he intends to increase the funding made available through Fáilte Ireland to support the ever-growing event that is Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. [6712/25]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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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, which will both soon come under the aegis of my colleague, Mr. Peter Burke TD, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, once the Tourism function has been transferred to him by Government Order.

With regard to specific expenditure by Fáilte Ireland from its Exchequer funding allocations, such decisions are an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, as the National Tourism Development Authority.

As the National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland’s role is to support the long-term sustainable growth in the economic, social, cultural and environmental contribution of tourism to Ireland. Fáilte Ireland works in partnership with Government, State agencies, Local Authorities, representative groups and industry, to develop tourism across Ireland by creating destination development plans and networks, investing in infrastructure, visitor attractions and festivals.?

I understand that funding by Fáilte Ireland for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 has been confirmed at €80,000, which is the same funding allocation as 2024, with the event set to take place in Wexford Town from 3 - 10 August 2025. Wexford Town also hosted the highly successful and very well received Fleadh Cheoil 2024, embracing all aspects of the Irish cultural traditions.

The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann programme celebrates our traditional music and culture in new and exciting ways which will give visitors the opportunity to experience the very best of Wexford Town and Ireland's Ancient East. There is also a unique opportunity to showcase the visitor experiences that Wexford Town has to offer visitors. It also highlights the region as a destination for authentic experiences within Ireland's Ancient East, inspiring visitors to return and explore the area and visit the many unique attractions.

Separately, the annual allocation by my Department to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann has increased steadily over recent years and amounts to €2,550,000 in the current year. This funding is provided to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for its work in the protection and promotion of Irish traditional music and culture

Finally, I think it is important to acknowledge the support of local businesses, the community and the local authorities which are important strands of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann arrangements. This great festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and would not be possible without financial support from businesses and local authorities and the voluntary effort of the community in preparing and managing the event safely for all to enjoy.