Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
168. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the strategies to support the development of Ireland’s beaches to support sustainable tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45345/26]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that tourism is one of Ireland’s most significant economic sectors, supporting approximately 229,000 jobs and 46,000 businesses, with a strong regional footprint in coastal communities. The sustainable development of Ireland’s beaches is therefore central both to environmental protection and to the long-term resilience of our tourism economy.
In line with the Programme for Government, the National Tourism Policy Statement, A New Era for Irish Tourism (2025–2031), sets out a framework for a competitive, sustainable and regionally balanced tourism sector. It emphasises that Ireland’s natural environment, including its beaches, remain central to our tourism offering while contributing to national climate objectives.
The Policy includes key commitments such as continued investment by local authorities and agencies in infrastructure such as greenways, blueways, walking trails and active travel routes, with a focus on linking key attractions, including Blue Flag beaches, to towns and villages. The policy also provides for the development of a new Marine Tourism Strategy to support sustainable growth in coastal communities, including enhanced marketing of island and coastal experiences.
In addition, my Department has published Ireland’s first Tourism Sectoral Adaptation Plan 2025–2030. This plan strengthens understanding of climate impacts, builds awareness across tourism-dependent communities, and enhances resilience to risks such as coastal erosion and extreme weather events, helping safeguard Ireland’s beaches for future generations.
At a local level, Fáilte Ireland works with local authorities and industry through Destination and Experience Development Plans, prioritising sustainable development of destinations, improved infrastructure and better visitor management. For example, the Wexford Destination Plan identifies the development of a “coastal tourism destination of excellence,” including initiatives to enhance beach infrastructure, strengthen coastal activity clusters, and improve connectivity.
Significant investment is also being delivered under Project Ireland 2040 through Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth scheme including the development of 19 water-sports facilities, mostly at coastal beaches, providing accessible amenities with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The Curracloe facility in County Wexford which I launched in July 2025, is a flagship example of this approach.
Fáilte Ireland also promotes sustainable tourism by working with local authorities and communities to manage congestion and improve visitor experiences in key destinations such as North Clare and the Dingle Slea Head. It partners with MTU on the SMART Coast programme using innovative, technology-based solutions to manage visitor flows and support sustainable coastal development. The promotion of environmental responsibility through initiatives like "Leave No Trace" and the “Love This Place” campaign, while also supporting the Clean Coasts programme. Additionally, its involvement in the Blue Flag Programme highlights its commitment to maintaining high environmental standards, safety, and accessibility across Ireland’s beaches and coastal areas.
Continuing the sustainable development of Ireland’s beaches requires a coordinated approach that combines climate resilience planning, environmental conservation, stakeholder engagement and responsible tourism practices. By implementing these measures, Ireland can safeguard its coastal assets while continuing to provide high-quality tourism experiences in the face of a changing climate. This balanced and forward-looking approach will help ensure that Ireland’s beaches remain attractive, accessible and viable for both current users and future generations.
