Vol. 452 No. 6
8 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade whether tourism returns for 1995 indicate that growth targets for the industry are being achieved; the outlook for the remainder of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8374/95]
While the official figures for the first quarter of 1995 are not yet available the prospects for improved performance are favourable with growth anticipated in all of our principal overseas markets.
Therefore, I am confident that Irish tourism will build on the impressive results achieved in 1994 and that 1995 will see increased numbers and revenue from all our main markets.
No doubt the Minister would agree that we would all welcome greater growth within the tourism industry but is he aware of some alarming reports from those involved, particularly in the retail business, of substantial reductions in their turnover in the early part of this season which would not appear to have been reflected in the Minister's reply? Is he aware of these reports and, if so, would he comment on them?
I am aware of some concern having been expressed but it is somewhat too early in the year to make accurate predictions.
I am referring to past trends also.
For instance, we anticipate receiving of the order of two million visitors from Great Britain, approximately 500,000 from North America with a further 1.75 million approximately from continential European and other countries. Present projections are that spending will increase considerably over last year resulting from increased numbers of tourists coming here but we cannot be accurate in those predictions as yet.
At the many trade shows I have attended, where Irish goods were on offer, I have to say that such concern is not great. For example, the show case I attended earlier in the year — at which Deputy Andrews was present — conducted unprecedented business within a very short period. As time progresses we will be able to ascertain a more accurate figure and/or forecast. But I am very optimistic and confident that this tourist year will be unprecedented in terms of its value to our economy. The Deputy will be aware that it is our third largest industry directly employing 91,000 people.
Have there been additional joint tourism promotions on the part of Bord Fáilte and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board in the early part of this year following on the cessation of violence in the Six Counties?
I think there is a later question on that subject but it is fair to say that there is much greater co-operation between Bord Fáilte and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the entire island being marketed as a single entity.
