Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2012
713. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the action he will take regarding the fall off in the number of visitors from Britain during the three months to the end of September; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52913/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe question relates to the fall in visitor numbers from Britain.
According to the latest CSO figures for January to September 2012, and despite on-going economic difficulties across much of Europe and further afield, our visitor numbers from the European and long-haul markets performed well and North America held steady. However, our visitor numbers from Britain continue to be affected by the slow pace of economic recovery and weak consumer confidence in that market, with overall trips from Britain to Ireland falling by around 4% in the first nine months of the year.
While British visitors spend less and do not stay as long as other overseas visitors, Britain remains our single most important tourism market. I am determined to restore it to growth. In this regard, I was pleased to welcome last month's report of the Tourism Recovery Taskforce's (TRT), entitled “GB Path to Growth”, and I understand that its recommendations for restoring growth in visitors from Britain will be reflected in the 2013 plans of our tourism agencies and businesses.
Tourism Ireland has been conducting an extensive promotional programme this year focusing on our main markets, including Britain. Its autumn/winter campaign aims to boost late-season travel to Ireland from around the globe, as well as promoting The Gathering Ireland 2013. For next year, The Gathering Ireland 2013 will form the central focus of all tourism campaigns, with the TRT recommendations further informing marketing plans and activity in the British market.
Growth in visitor numbers from Britain is dependent on improved economic conditions and consumer confidence, as well as the efforts of the tourism industry and agencies. Using The Gathering as our centrepiece for 2013 and building on the approach set out by the TRT, I know that Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and the tourist industry will work to sell Ireland overseas and to strengthen the competitiveness of our product. I am confident that we can grow tourist numbers, from Britain and further afield, for 2013 and beyond.
