COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, October 10, 2022

QUESTION NO. 22

QUESTION: Councillor C. O'Connor

To ask the Chief Executive to update members on the further development of the Council's Tourism Strategy; will he confirm discussions he has had in the matter and will he make a statement?

REPLY:

South Dublin County’s Tourism Strategy will set out a Vision for Tourism in the County, and in turn, what strategic direction to take – essentially the matching of our product, the county’s strategic assets, and their potential, against the market opportunities and how we deliver – at a high level. Leading with strong natural assets and other attractions in nearby areas, the strategy will aim to maximise benefits for all areas.

The Council has reviewed the previous County Tourism Strategy which informed a tender preparation process. A tender seeking Consultancy Services for the Preparation of an evidence based Tourism Strategy and Implementation Plan was published in August, 2022. An evaluation process of tenders received is underway. It is expected that, following a standstill period, a preferred tenderer will be appointed in mid October.

It is expected that following strategy preparation, an indicative timeline of progress includes the delivery of a draft tourism strategy in January, 2023, updating elected members at that time. It is envisaged that a final tourism strategy will be brought to the Council meeting in May, 2023.