Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
157. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on Fáilte Ireland's plans to develop a destination and experience development plan specifically for north Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29605/26]
View answerAt the outset, I should clarify that regional tourism promotion is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, in collaboration with Local Authorities and other tourism stakeholders. Cork is represented by three regional tourism brands: Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. The Wild Atlantic Way follows the West Cork Coastline from Kinsale. The Wild Atlantic Region encompasses the west and?north?of the County.?Cork?City and East?Cork?(east of the M8) are represented by Ireland’s Ancient East and the Ballyhoura local development area sits in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
I am advised that Fáilte Ireland has established localised Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs) to activate these brands. The DEDPs are 5-year sustainable tourism development plans for a destination, which bring public and private sector organisations together to prioritise tourism development projects and maximise their chance for success. The DEDP’s are highly collaborative in nature, involving all local stakeholders and this is reflected in the agreed action plans where ownership is assigned among the various parties.
Fáilte Ireland has commenced the development of a new Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) for North Cork. This initiative aims to enhance the region's appeal to both domestic and international visitors, ensuring sustainable growth and development in our tourism sector and will outline strategic initiatives to boost tourism, improve visitor experiences, and promote the unique attractions of North Cork.
The project is currently in the discovery phase, which includes a high-level product audit of the area and the definition of the appropriate geographic scope for the Plan.
As part of this early work, Fáilte Ireland has shared the draft product audit and proposed geographic mapping with Cork County Council to ensure the DEDP area is accurately defined and that no key tourism assets are omitted. Engagement with Cork County Council is ongoing, and a meeting is planned in the coming weeks to discuss the findings and agree next steps.
Subject to the completion of the discovery phase, the next stages of the process will include the establishment of a local working group to support the development of the DEDP.
In line with this significant project, Fáilte Ireland will continue to develop and refine itineraries that showcase the best of what North Cork has to offer. These itineraries will highlight the diverse experiences available to visitors, from cultural and historical sites to outdoor adventures and local culinary delights. Fáilte Ireland believe this plan will be instrumental in positioning North Cork as a tourism destination and look forward to working closely with community and industry stakeholders to make this vision a reality.
