COMMENTING on today's publication of the Assembly Government's coastal tourism strategy,
Shadow Heritage Minister Paul Davies AM said:

"While welcome, this strategy is long-overdue given the fact that visitor numbers to Wales have fallen in recent years.

"It is important that every effort is given to promoting home-grown tourism during these difficult economic times.

"The weakness of the Pound and the looming recession are forcing more people to consider holidaying at home.

"We have long held concerns that the abolition of the Wales Tourist Board has had a damaging effect on our ability to market Wales as a leading tourism destination.

"Proper investment and a proper strategy are critical to ensuring the vibrancy of the Welsh tourism sector, and to protect the businesses and jobs which depend upon it."