36. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment under the implementation of the Government's tourism strategy and tourism development plans, if he will consider introducing specific supports for marine and maritime tourism enterprises to enhance and develop coastal tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66668/26]

I recognise the important role that marine and maritime tourism plays in supporting the economic sustainability of our coastal communities and offshore islands. Marine tourism makes a significant contribution to local employment, enterprise development and the promotion of Ireland’s unique natural, cultural and maritime heritage.

Under A New Era for Irish Tourism: Ireland’s National Tourism Policy, the Government has identified significant potential to further develop tourism in coastal areas and strengthen the contribution of marine tourism to regional economies. The Policy contains a specific commitment to develop a Marine Tourism Strategy, which will identify opportunities for the sustainable growth of marine and coastal tourism, including initiatives to support coastal communities and promote Ireland’s islands as distinctive visitor destinations.

In this regard, Fáilte Ireland is progressing preparatory work on the development of a Marine Tourism Strategy, which will establish a framework to support the sustainable growth of marine tourism and help realise the full tourism potential of Ireland’s coastline, islands, waterways and maritime heritage assets. The strategy will seek to identify opportunities to enhance visitor experiences, strengthen coastal destinations and support tourism businesses operating within the marine tourism sector. This work is expected to commence in early 2027.

Pending completion of this strategy, Fáilte Ireland is already supporting marine and coastal tourism through its destination development programme. Through Destination and Experience Development Plans across the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East and Dublin, Fáilte Ireland works with local authorities, communities and tourism businesses to enhance coastal visitor experiences. This includes support for maritime heritage attractions, water-based activities and destination management initiatives that strengthen the appeal of coastal locations for domestic and international visitors.

Recent examples include the Cliff Coast Destination and Experience Development Plan for North Kerry and West Clare, which focuses on developing sustainable coastal tourism experiences. The Cork City, Harbour and East Cork Destination and Experience Development Plan provides a framework for tourism development across Cork Harbour and Ireland’s south-east coastline. The recently launched Wild Mayo Destination and Experience Development Plan aims to grow sustainable tourism, extend the visitor season and spread economic benefits across the region.

Fáilte Ireland is also supporting water-based tourism through targeted capital investment. This includes the development of the National Surf Centre in Strandhill, Co. Sligo, Ireland's first purpose-built surfing facility. In addition, the Platforms for Growth programme is supporting the delivery of 19 water sports facilities across 13 counties.

My Department also provides a range of enterprise supports that are available to marine and maritime tourism businesses. The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), operating through all 31 local authorities, provide business advice, mentoring, management development, and signposting to relevant Government supports. Established tourism enterprises, including those operating in coastal and marine tourism, can access consultancy and grant supports in areas such as digitalisation, sustainability and lean business practices, helping them improve productivity, competitiveness and environmental performance.

In addition, the National Enterprise Hub provides a single access point to information on more than 250 Government business supports delivered by 32 Departments and State agencies. Through its website, telephone and live chat services, the Hub assists businesses in identifying appropriate grants, funding, loan schemes and advisory supports, including those relevant to tourism and hospitality enterprises.

Accordingly, I am satisfied that significant supports are already available to marine and maritime tourism enterprises. The forthcoming Marine Tourism Strategy will provide an important opportunity to consider what further actions may be required to unlock the sector’s full potential and foster the sustainable growth of coastal tourism throughout Ireland.