Figures Show 7.4% Rise In Tourism Numbers

New CSO figures showing a 7.4% rise in tourism numbers so far this year have been welcomed by Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar, who said it shows the Gathering has got off to a great start.

Mr Varadkar said: "These figures suggest that the Gathering is having a real impact, with visitor numbers for the first three months up 7.4% compared to the first quarter in 2013. This is the highest number of trips to Ireland in the first quarter since 2009. It’s very encouraging as we head into the main tourism season."

The CSO revealed growth across all main market areas, led by North America and continental Europe. Although the fact that Easter fell in March may have had a small influence on the figures, the general trend is clearly very positive.

Comparing the first quarter of 2013 with the same three months in 2012:

• Standing at 1.25 million visits, overall trips to Ireland were up 7.4%;

• Visits from North America were up to 16.7% at 168,800;

• Visits from Mainland Europe were up by 13% (444,000 visits), with very strong performances from:

• Nordic countries (+31%),

• France (+27%),

• Benelux (+10%),

• Germany (+10%).

• Great Britain registered an increase of 1.4%, with 570,200 visits – the highest since 2009;

• Visits from the rest of the world increased by 5.4% to 68,700 visits, with Australia and New Zealand growing by 21%.

(CD)