Fáilte Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta have signed a formal memorandum of understanding underpinning a strategic partnership to make the Gaeltacht "more appealing, accessible and relevant" to visitors.
The organisations will work together to better showcase the region across a number of priority areas for tourism development, including capital projects, building capacity within the tourism industry and supporting the development of tourism projects.
"Both Fáilte Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta are leaders in pursuing national policy objectives in relation to regional development, with a specific focus on optimising opportunities to leverage the development of tourism and the Irish language and culture," Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin said.
"Our Gaeltacht regions offer visitors a unique cultural experience rich in music, language, art and dance - this Memorandum of Understanding sets out a framework for the two organisations to deliver on common objectives and will be significant for the development of tourism in the Gaeltacht regions."
Paul Keeley, director of regional development at Fáilte Ireland, said: "Today is about looking to the future of tourism in our Gaeltacht regions.
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"This formal memorandum of understanding will strengthen the existing relationship that has been built up between Údarás na Gaeltachta and Fáilte Ireland over recent years and will be hugely important as we work towards recovery.
"We look forward to continuing to work together to align our strategic priorities to enhance the visitor experience and increase dwell time in these regions, supporting revenue generation and job creation in local communities."
Mícheál Ó hÉanaigh, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said: "Údarás na Gaeltachta are delighted to establish this Memorandum of Understanding with Fáilte Ireland to establish a Strategic Partnership and we look forward to ensuring a mutually beneficial working arrangement for many years ahead.
"This is a very important partnership and will allow both organisations to enhance our cooperation and achieve common aims and objectives in terms of tourism development in the Gaeltacht.
"The strategic development of tourism in the Gaeltacht is one the key priorities outlined in our 2021 - 2025 Gaeltacht Strategic Plan and following the Covid-19 emergency it is most welcome that both organisations will be strategically aligned in assisting the Gaeltacht tourism industry in its recovery and to contributing towards Ireland’s overall tourism product.
Photo: Micheál Ó hÉanaigh, CEO, Údarás na Gaeltachta (left) with Miriam Kennedy, Head of Wild Atlantic Way, Fáilte Ireland, and Paul Keeley, Regional Development Director, Fáilte Ireland, signing a memorandum of agreement between the two Government bodies at Seanchéibh an Spidéil, An Spidéal, Co Galway. (Pic: xposure)
