26.02.2014

/sites/default/files/upload/ihf_transition_year_programme_-_07.01.2021_1.pdfWednesday 26th February 2014

 

HOTELIERS WELCOME CONTINUED GROWTH IN OVERSEAS VISITORS

Stephen McNally, Newly Elected President of the Irish Hotels Federation

 

·     Welcome boost from growth in overseas visitors (up 8.2% Nov 2013 – Jan 2014)

·     Figures demonstrate continued momentum for tourism into 2014

·     Hoteliers more upbeat with 83% saying they have a positive outlook

 

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) today welcomed the 8.2% increase in overseas visitors to Ireland during the period November 2013 to January 2014 (link to CSO figures). Stephen McNally, President of the IHF, said that the figures indicate a continued momentum behind overseas visitors up to the end of 2013 and into this year.

 

The positive impact on tourism is reflected in results of an IHF industry survey this month which shows that three quarters of hoteliers (75%) are seeing an increase in business levels compared to this time last year while 65% are seeing an increase in advance bookings. Looking at the prospects over the next twelve months, the survey revealsa positive outlook among 83% of hotels and guesthouses.

 

“It’s particularly encouraging that strong growth is holding up from North America and Great Britain, which are vital overseas markets for us,” says Mr McNally. “The early indications are positive for tourism this year and much of this is down to the Government’s decision to retain the 9% VAT which will continue to help when marketing Ireland abroad as a tourism destination. This measure and the decision to reduce the air travel tax to zero will enable us to attract a greater share of overseas visitors over the remainder of the year.”

 

-ENDS-

 

FOR INFORMATION:

Eoin Quinn                                                       Dublin office: 01 6760168

Weber Shandwick                                           Mobile: 087 233 2191 / 086 817 5066

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