Joe Cooney (Clare, Fine Gael)
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96. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will consider the development of a standalone code of best practise for coastal pathways and a coastal pathway sustainability payment, similar to the 'Code of Best Practice for National and Regional Greenways' and the 'Greenway Sustainability Payment' currently in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21743/25]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will appreciate that tourism is now the policy responsibility of my colleague, Peter Burke TD. Following the making of a Government Order on Tuesday, statutory responsibility for the sector will transfer to Minister Burke from 1 June. Minister Burke has already had a number of engagements with key tourism stakeholders across a range of priority areas.However, the Programme for Government sets out the Government's ambitious plans to strengthen and enhance the tourism sector. The Tourism Policy Framework 2025 – 2030 was published by the previous Government last November. I understand that Minister Burke has asked officials to consider how commitments in the Programme for Government align with the Policy Framework and to prioritise the finalisation of a new Tourism Policy which reflects the Programme for Government and other Government priorities. In that regard, I note that the Programme for Government provides that the Government will work with local authorities and Failte Ireland to enhance and upgrade the Wild Atlantic Way and develop a new and innovative coastal route along the East and South coast. The Programme for Government also commits to investing, via the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, in the development of new walking trails, cycle ways, tidal pools and other unique amenities at local level and working in partnership with landowners continue to expand and increase investment in the National Walks Scheme creating flagship walking and hiking trails across the country. As both those schemes come under the remit of the Department of Rural and Community Development, I would expect that the question as to who might be best placed to lead out on the development of codes of best practice or a sustainability payment would require consideration by that Department.In relation to ongoing work, I do note that Fáilte Ireland's Regional Tourism Development Strategies and Destination and Experience Development Plans (DEDPs) include significant initiatives in coastal areas. For example, the Cliff Coast DEDP focuses on North Kerry and West Clare, aiming to create sustainable tourism by developing unique coastal experiences. Additionally, the Dublin Coastal Trail is being extended to include more coastal villages, enhancing visitor engagement with maritime heritage. These efforts help attract visitors, extend their stays, and support local economies while preserving the natural beauty of Ireland's coastlines.