Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 April 2026
78. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the supports available for chartered ferry operators who provide tourism services to offshore islands in view of the recent fuel cost increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28868/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of subsidised ferry, cargo and air services to offshore islands is a matter for the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, which has responsibility for ensuring the continued viability and sustainability of island communities through these transport supports.
More generally, the Government recognises the significant challenges facing enterprises arising from current global energy supply pressures. As highlighted by the comprehensive fuel support package announced on 12 April, targeted measures have been put in place to assist businesses. In addition, over recent years Government has implemented a broad range of measures to reduce exposure to fossil fuel price volatility through improved energy efficiency, fuel switching and the acceleration of the transition to low-carbon, indigenous energy sources.
The Government, through my Department and its agencies, supports the tourism sector through the implementation of A New Era for Irish Tourism – the National Tourism Policy Statement. This policy places a strong emphasis on supporting tourism SMEs, extending the tourism season, and promoting balanced regional development. Both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland play a central role in delivering this policy on the ground.
In light of recent increases in fuel and energy costs affecting tourism businesses, Fáilte Ireland has taken measures to expand and scale up its Climate Action Programme, with a particular focus on helping businesses realise cost savings at an earlier stage. While the programme continues to offer structured advisory support over a longer-term period, enhancements are designed to accelerate the identification and implementation of energy efficiency and fuel saving measures, enabling participating businesses to benefit more quickly, without the need to progress through the full programme timeframe. These measures assist businesses in reducing operating costs, while also supporting emissions reduction and longer-term sustainability. Relevant SEAI grant opportunities are also identified for participants.
Fáilte Ireland also provides a range of additional supports that may be accessed by chartered ferry operators delivering tourism experiences, subject to eligibility. These include Training and Enterprise supports, as well as Marketing and Destination development supports.
In addition, the Programme for Government sets out an ambitious framework for strengthening and enhancing the tourism sector nationwide. In this context, I secured additional funding in Budget 2026 for Fáilte Ireland to further its work on balanced regional development and domestic marketing.
