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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Dec 1986

Vol. 370 No. 9

Written Answers. - British Tourist Market.

37.

asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry in view of the decline in British tourists to Ireland in 1986, his plans to regain and increase our share of the British tourist market, in particularly to increase the number of motoring tourists.

51.

asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the substantial fall-off in tourists from Britain; and the steps he proposes to take in the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 57 together.

On the basis of preliminary statistics regarding the level of British traffic to Ireland this year, it is estimated that visitor numbers will be about 1.1 million, which in essence is the same as last year. However, revenue from Britain is estimated to show an increase of 4 per cent on the 1985 performance to £178.7 million.

For 1987, Bord Fáilte will be intensifying its promotional campaign in the British market. In particular, a major sales drive involving the bord representatives of the tourist industry and the carriers will be launched in February next to ensure that the recent new lower air and sea fares from this market are fully exploited. The campaign will also emphasise the competitive range of inclusive holiday packages that are available for visitors. I am confident that more competitive sea access fares should result in an increase in the number of motoring visitors from Britain next year.

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