1009. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the funding allocated to tourism development projects in Donegal in each of the years 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56472/26]

Funding allocated to tourism development projects in County Donegal is supported through a wide range of funding sources including Fáilte Ireland which operates under the aegis of my Department. At regional and local level, Fáilte Ireland works to develop, support and promote tourism in accordance with the relevant tourism experience brands, which provide the strategic framework for associated product development.

Significant investment in tourism development projects is also delivered through several Government programmes and international funding mechanisms, such as LEADER. In addition to funding provided by individual local authorities, wider regional and central Government schemes also make an important contribution to capital investment and tourism regeneration regionally, for example through the RRDF.

County Donegal has benefited from a substantial range of Fáilte Ireland investment and programme supports across capital development, outdoor activity infrastructure, destination development, festivals, digital capability, marketing and strategic partnerships over the period referenced by the Deputy as follows:

Key projects supported by Fáilte Ireland over this period in County Donegal include:

The above funding is closely aligned with the Wild Atlantic Way Regional Tourism Development Strategy and Donegal’s Destination Experience Development Plan (DEDP) for Inishowen.   In addition, a new DEDP for West Donegal and the Islands is currently being developed, covering the western region of the county from Fanad in the north to Bundoran in the south. The plan will also encompass the western coastline, including the Gaeltacht, Rathmullan, Donegal Town, and the inhabited islands of Arranmore and Tory, as well as smaller islands such as Inishbofin, Gola and Cruit. Development of the DEDP is underway, with publication anticipated by Failte Ireland in Q4 2026. These place a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism growth, improved visitor dispersion, extending the tourism season, and maximising economic benefits for local communities.

Fáilte Ireland also works closely with Donegal Tourism, Letterkenny Tourism and Go Visit Inishowen (Inishowen Tourism) to support destination development, industry collaboration, visitor experience enhancement and the sustainable growth of tourism across the county.  This includes funding for Go Visit Inishowen's trail guide programme, which has delivered a series of high-quality walking and outdoor recreation guides showcasing the peninsula's rich natural and cultural assets. These guides help encourage visitor dispersal, promote longer stays, and support local tourism businesses while enhancing access to and awareness of Inishowen's unique landscapes and experiences.

Donegal funding profile shows sustained investment in signature outdoor assets, heritage experiences, destination towns, digital transformation and festivals. The combined supports strengthen Donegal's position as a flagship Wild Atlantic Way destination while addressing priorities around sustainable tourism, off-season growth, business capability and enhanced visitor experiences across the county.