Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 May 2014
272. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he expects the tourism sector to develop in this country over the next three years; the most likely areas of growth identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22091/14]
View answer275. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is satisfied that all areas throughout the regions have adequate access to the tourism market with particular reference to promotion and capitalisation on various locations of historical and scenic content; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22094/14]
View answer276. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which the tourism sector has contributed to economic recovery in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22095/14]
View answer277. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the degree to which further expansion and development of the tourism sector is envisaged with particular reference to marketing of new products or specific promotion of particular locations on global markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22096/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 272 and 275 to 277, inclusive, together.
The approved Tourism Ireland Corporate Plan 2014 - 2016 includes a target of increasing overseas visits to Ireland by 13% by 2016 compared to 2013. Priority overseas markets will again be the United States, Great Britain, Germany and France, which together deliver almost three-quarters of all our overseas visitors but promotions will also continue in other markets. The agency's Business Plan for 2014 targets growth in visit numbers to Ireland of 4% this year and growth in associated visitor revenue of 7%.Recent figures published by the CSO show that overseas visit numbers were up by 7.3% for the first quarter of 2014, compared to the same period in 2013 suggesting that we are on course to achieve these targets.
In terms of revenue, the most recent CSO data indicates that spending in Ireland by overseas visitors - excluding fares - reached €3.3 billion in 2013, up 10% since 2010. The seasonally adjusted level of employment in accommodation and food service for the last quarter of 2013 was 137,000, up over 15,000 on the same period in 2010, and the highest level at any time since the economic crisis began.
The marketing of Ireland as a visitor destination overseas, including the content used in such advertising is a matter for the tourism agencies, and I do not have a direct role in this area. I am aware however, that this year Tourism Ireland, working closely with Fáilte Ireland, is placing a major focus on highlighting the Wild Atlantic Way. It is also promoting key events including the Croke Park Classic American football game and the very successful visit of the Giro d'Italia last weekend.
In view of this work by the tourism agencies, and other measures such as the retention of the 9% VAT rate, the reduction of the air travel tax to zero, and the increased air access to Ireland, I am confident that the prospects for Irish tourism are very positive. In terms of the further development of the tourism sector, my Department is currently undertaking a review of Tourism Policy. The review is looking at all aspects of Irish tourism and once the final tourism policy has been set, it is intended it will provide a robust foundation for a broader tourism strategy and action plan. I hope to have the policy document finalised in the coming weeks.
