Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
457. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps he is taking to increase the tourism potential of County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3552/26]
View answerMy Department's role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of developing national tourism policy, while the tourism agencies have operational responsibility for the implementation of this policy.
Following consultation with stakeholders, the Ireland’s Ancient East Regional Tourism Development Strategy 2023–2027 was published as a roadmap for tourism development in the region. This overarching strategy is being delivered through a suite of Destination and Experience Development Plans (DEDPs) for each destination.
These plans unite public and private sector organisations to prioritise projects and maximise success. Work on the Carlow DEDP, a five-year sustainable tourism development plan, commenced in September 2025. It is anticipated by Fáilte Ireland that the plan will be complete by late 2026, subject to the required environmental assessments being finalised within this timeframe.
The Barrow Tourism Masterplan will be delivered under the Fáilte Ireland–Waterways Ireland strategic partnership, following the model of the Shannon Navigation Masterplan. A Steering Group chaired by Waterways Ireland will oversee the project, with Carlow County Council as lead authority alongside Kildare, Laois, and Kilkenny County Councils. Waterways Ireland has appointed an Eastern Regional Manager to lead the initiative. The plan will set out a long-term vision for tourism along the River Barrow and is expected to be progressed significantly in 2026.
Fáilte Ireland will continue working with a number of Carlow businesses in identifying growth opportunities. The "Digital that Delivers" programme operated by Fáilte Ireland supports digital transformation for tourism businesses. Total funding awarded to Carlow businesses under this initiative is €311,854.51. This figure includes investment grant funding & direct supports (inc. diagnostics, training & mentoring)
Festivals and events remain central to the visitor experience with regional festival funding for Carlow in 2023 and 2024 totalling €19,500. Under the Destination Towns scheme, funded through Project Ireland 2040, Carlow County Council received €500,000 to enhance Carlow’s tourism appeal. The project was launched in April 2024.
These investments and strategies aim to strengthen Carlow’s tourism offering, foster collaboration, and deliver sustainable growth while enhancing visitor experiences.
