The dedicated and ambitious five year plan (2015-2020), called ‘Growing Tourism in Cork’, was launched on the 26th of January. It is very welcome and something that I have been calling for for some time.

“The strategy was developed following extensive research and the findings are supported by an implementation framework with defined and measurable actions. It will be delivered through Visit Cork, a new leisure tourism organisation.

“For some time now I have said that Cork must be marketed as a single destination and as ‘the gateway to all Munster’ when it comes to attracting tourists.

“Now, with this report we are a step closer to this goal, but we must get assurances that this strategy will be implemented. There is no point to all of the work that went into the report if it sits on a shelf and gathers dust. We need to know who will have responsibility for ensuring that the strategy is a success.

“I’m delighted that we now have the blueprint for a coherent tourism marketing strategy for Cork but it must now be used over the next decade to market Cork as a single region. Our city and county has a lot to offer and we must sell this message. The success of this plan will also be crucial for continuing passenger growth at Cork Airport. Now that we have a strategy we must implement it, we must put the plan into action.

“Investing in the tourism sector is a priority for Fine Gael. More and better jobs will provide increased resources to allow for investment in these vital sectors of the economy.

“Fine Gael has a long term economic plan to keep the recovery going, which includes three steps: more and better jobs, making work pay and investing in better services. More people in work creates the resources to cut taxes for working people and invest in better services, improving living standards for all”

08/02/2016