The tourism industry has got a significant boost with the news that Mary Hanafin has been appointed Minister to the re-named Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport (previously Arts, Sport and Tourism). She knows the sector well and has had a long association with DIT Cathal Brugha Street. I even recall receiving my parchment from her on graduation day.
I am amazed at some the media coverage surrounding her appointment. Many still regard this portfolio as simply a 'fun' ministry. However, tourism is a serious economic activity critical to Ireland's recovery. And of course, jobs in the sector cannot be re-located overseas.
She and her cabinet colleagues have some immediate challenges to solve such as finding solutions to the car-rental shortage and the taxi driver protests.
However, I predict that she will be a superb Minister and one who ensures that tourism becomes much more central to government economic policy.........the question is, will she get 26 months in the role or will we have a general election before then? Time will tell!
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