AUGUST 2004

Imaginative Approach Towards Tourism Needed

An imaginative approach is needed to move tourism in Inishowen forward, locally-based T.D. Cecelia Keaveney has said. The Moville based Deputy who congratulated all those involved in regattas, festivals, raft races, song contests and other events taking place over the last number of weeks, said there was no doubt that tourists could be attracted to the area, but said work must be done now to ensure they stay longer.

"We need to look at developing Sports, Tourism, Marine Tourism, Equestrian and Walking holidays to name but a few. We have the natural resources of a beautiful location, but it is time to take stock not only of the pluses, but also of our minuses and see how we can address the deficits."

Deputy Keaveney, who recently met with the Chief Executive of Failte Ireland, said that the issues that had led to the drop in tourism numbers would have to be not only investigated, but also acted upon by the State Agencies responsible for tourism. "I was glad, both in my role as Chair of the Tourism Committee in the Oireachtas, but also as a local T.D. in Donegal North-East to have the opportunity to discuss at length a number of issues with Shaun Quinn at our meeting in Dublin last week. It was helpful to exchange thoughts and information from both a local and national perceptive."

Deputy Keaveney said that while we must look to next year, the tourism industry must learn from this year also. "I trust that all those in the industry will not be dispirited at this time but remain resolute that the tide can turn again and those involved in a voluntary capacity in providing entertainment will continue to realise the value in what they are doing for so many communities throughout the county and indeed the country," she concluded.

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