Ireland To Make Tourism Drive Next Year

The government body responsible of tourism in Ireland has announced a marketing strategy to boost tourism next year.

The launch of the 2010 marketing strategy event was launched this morning and attended by Minister for Arts Sport & Tourism, Martin Cullen, along with top tourism industry leaders.

Next year's drive is in response to the 12% drop in visitors Ireland experienced in 2009. Tourism Ireland said plans to grow visitor numbers by +3% next year – attracting an additional 230,000 visitors and giving a 2010 target of 7.85 million.

The new campaign would be focussed on Britain and Germany.

Martin Cullen TD, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, said: "The Government fully recognises the important role that tourism can play in contributing to the country's economic recovery and is committed to continued investment in the sector as a priority in 2010.

"Tourism Ireland's global marketing plans which we are launching today are a key component in realising the potential of the many millions of people who will take holidays and short breaks in 2010. We want to capture as much of this business as possible for Ireland."

Also speaking at the launch, Niall Gibbons, Tourism Ireland's Chief Executive, said: "2010 is about action to stem the decline and begin the return to growth for tourism from overseas. Tourism Ireland, in partnership with the tourism industry, will focus on getting short-terms wins.

"Value will be a key message for the hugely competitive markets in which we operate; and we'll be highlighting the uniqueness of a holiday on the island of Ireland – the diversity of our culture and heritage and the friendliness of our people – to secure 'stand out' and differentiate ourselves in a very crowded marketplace."

(DW/BMcc)