Donegal’s tourism potential being held back by continuing infrastructure deficit, says Doherty
Donegal is blessed with spectacular scenery unrivalled in Europe but its tourism potential is being held back by a continuing infrastructure deficit, the Dáil has heard.
“I come from Donegal. I can say hand on heart that it is the most beautiful and scenic place in the country. It is blessed with spectacular scenery that you would not see anywhere in Europe, although I am very biased in that regard.
"It has got that tradition and is rich in culture, our language, our heritage, our islands and all that it offers,” Pearse Doherty told TDs during a discussion of the tourism industry.
The Sinn Féin TD referred to ‘serious infrastructural issues’ that have put a ceiling on growth.
"The north west is not serviced by motorway. It is not serviced by rail links. It has serious issues in relation to its public transport infrastructure, which is supplemented by a number of private operators that have operated excellently for many years.
“There is also basic infrastructure. I come from Gweedore, for example. There are hotel developments that are being stalled and held up because we do not have a sewerage scheme that been promised time and time again from the Government,” said the Donegal representative.
Deputy Doherty told the Dáil that ‘tourism is one of Ireland's most important industries’.
"The beauty about tourism is that it goes right deep into some of our most rural and most hinterland parts of our island.
"If we are really serious about developing tourism, we must also be serious about addressing regional inequalities, that continue to hold areas back,” he declared.