Even though 2019 has been a mixed year for Irish tourism, latest estimates indicate that by year end overseas tourism will have both generated €5.8 billion for the economy, driven by almost 11.2 million overseas visitors, and helped to support 325,000 jobs in communities around the island, according to Tourism Ireland.
Keeping Ireland "Top Of Mind" For Potential Visitors
Tourism Ireland CEO Niall Gibbons stated, "While 2019 has been a mixed year, overseas tourism will deliver an estimated €5.8 billion to the economy, driven by almost 11.2 million overseas visitors – just short of last year's record. We've worked hard with our industry partners, combating growing consumer concern in Britain and some important mainland European markets arising from the continued uncertainty around Brexit, economic slowdown in some markets and the first decline in air access to Ireland in eight years. Our focus throughout the year has been to keep Ireland 'top of mind' for potential visitors across the world."
"A Packed Programme Of Promotions"
Gibbons added, "Throughout 2019, Tourism Ireland undertook a packed programme of promotions to bring Ireland to the attention of travellers everywhere. Activity included the roll-out of our first global campaign in seven years – 'Fill your Heart with Ireland', campaigns to drive business to the regions and encourage more visitors to come here in the shoulder and off-seasons, city breaks campaigns for Dublin, Belfast and other urban centres, Game of Thrones, and 'Taste the Island', as well as Tourism Ireland's annual global greening initiative on St. Patrick's Day, which was bigger than ever this year."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
