Vol. 568 No. 2
116 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in relation to marine tourism; the cross-departmental work that is going on to yield projects particularly in tourism blackspots; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15853/03]
Responsibility for the development and marketing of tourism resides primarily with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, and is supported under the overall tourism measure of the national development plan. However, it was recognised that specific support was needed for improving marine access infrastructure, such as marinas, berths and slipways, and an amount of €25.4 million was allocated to the marine tourism grant scheme, a sub-measure of the overall tourism measure under the NDP. This scheme was administered by my Department, but unfortunately, all moneys allocated are fully committed to existing projects.
My Department continues to play a key role in promoting and developing an appropriate safety regime, essential for the regulation of the marine tourism and leisure sector, and in its overall management of the coastal zone, including foreshore development. In addition, the Marine Institute, which is entirely grant-aided by my Department, as part of its overall remit for marine research and development, supports a marine leisure and tourism research and development programme. The Marine Institute works closely with the tourism bodies, local authorities and the industry in identifying sectoral potential and development opportunities. For example, the Institute has funded a pilot project with Donegal County Council which has resulted in the appointment of a full-time marine leisure development officer and the preparation of a county development board marine strategy. This is the type of initiative which is targeting areas with marine tourism potential and will continue to have my full support.
My Department is also represented on the tourism product management boards for the southern and eastern region and the border, midlands and western regions. These are made up of members from the private sector, Fáilte Ireland, the regional assemblies, the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism and my own Department. The product management board is the decision-making authority in relation to grant approvals under the overall tourism measure.
