Mary Harney
Question:46 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the outcome of the 1995 tourism season; and the prospects to date for the 1996 tourism season. [4339/96]
Written Answers. - 1995 and 1996 Tourism Seasons.
The Tourism and Travel Quarterly Statistical Release for the October to December quarter of 1995, published by the Central Statistics Office on 12 February 1996, bore out the forecast which I made at the end of 1995 that it was the best year ever for Irish tourism.
The highlights of the CSO release were that in 1995: 4,256,000 overseas visitors came to Ireland, up over 15 per cent on 1994; visitors from Great Britain were up 13 per cent, other European countries were up 12 per cent, North America (USA and Canada) were up 30 per cent, and other countries were up 27 per cent.
The provisional Central Statistics Office figures for earnings (including carrier receipts) from overseas visitors for the first nine months of 1995 shows a 13 per cent increase on the same period in 1994.
The published data released by the Central Statistics Office does not give an official breakdown of the number of overseas tourists who visit Dublin or the regions. Bord Fáilte does however, as part of its research, undertake an annual survey of overseas travellers which measures the regional distribution of overseas tourist visits. The compilation and publication of this material is the direct responsibility of Bord Fáilte and I have no function in the matter. I can say, however, that growth rates generally in Irish tourism, achieved across all regions of Ireland, in recent years have been better than international and European averages.
In relation to 1996, the initial target set by Bord Fáilte was for overall growth in visitor numbers of 10 per cent above the records achieved in 1995. Specific targets are not set for the regions. Although it is still early days yet, I understand from Bord Fáilte that the level of inquiries received during January and early February were in line with this target, and notwithstanding the recent tragic events in London, there is confidence that the underlying strength and resilience of the tourism industry will maintain Irish tourism on a growth path for 1996.