Dublin bay is Ireland's most popular destination with cruise liners. In 2008 a total of 82 cruise vessels visited Dublin Port but currently none stop in Dun Laoghaire.
"Cruise tourism has huge potential to contribute economically to businesses in the area" the Minister said.
It's an important point given her Government colleague Minister Ciaran Cuffe's recent finding that 20% of all shops in the town are closed.
Cuffe's Green Party has pledged support to help local residents and business owners solve the problem of Dún Laoghaire's vacant shop units. Over 180 residents and business owners attended the July 6 meeting held by Cuffe called 'A Vision for Dun Laoghaire'.
"One of the key challenges identified at the meeting is the number of vacant units in the town which according to our survey is one fifth of all shops. Urgent action must be taken to support existing retailers and to encourage new businesses to set up here". Cuffe says on his website.
A local councillor Cormac Devine is also looking out to sea for solutions. He has insisted that Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council bid for the 2012 Volvo Ocean Race after Galway tourism revenues topped 60 million when the race came there in 2009.
Minister for Sport and Local Dun Laoghaire TD Mary Hanafin (second from right) backs a plan to bring Cruise liners into Dun Laoghaire. Photo: Michael Chester