An Irish MEP has urged the new Government to exploit the "endless possibilities" of marine tourism in Ireland.

Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg earlier this week, Sean Kelly MEP said: “My own constituency of Ireland South alone boasts a huge array of tourist attractions along the sea shore. Deep-sea and river angling in East Cork, whale-watching in West Cork, surfing along the beautiful beaches of Kerry."

Kelly argued that the draft Atlantic Area Strategy - designed to facilitate greater economic co-operation between coastal countries in western Europe - would encourage new business start-ups in popular water sports such as surfing and other coastline activities.

"I would like to see more surfing competitions, marine festivals and a determined marketing campaign to attract international visitors to the region," he said, adding that tourism bodies in Ireland and the UK specifically should work together on a joint action plan.

“The whole island of Ireland should reap the rewards of having one of Europe’s best coastlines for water sports and marine tourism," said Kelly.