Thursday, 14th December 1999

IRISH HOTELS FEDERATION APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF REDMOND O'DONOGHUE TO BORD FÁILTE

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) today said that the appointment by Dr J McDaid, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, of one of Ireland's leading business figures, Redmond O'Donoghue to the Chair of Bord Fáilte is a decisive, positive move to secure Ireland's future as a top international tourism destination. Mr Bill Power, President of the IHF said that his appointment would mark a new era for Ireland's national tourist board in a time of great change and opportunity.

"The Irish tourism industry faces many challenges over the next number of years, and successful marketing is the cornerstone to consolidate our phenomenal success over the last decade. The vast experience, which Mr O'Donoghue will bring to Bord Fáilte, will play a fundamental part in Ireland not only holding its market share, but also increasing it - in spite of intense competition from other European and international destinations. Mr O'Donoghue's leadership of Waterford Crystal has positioned it as one Ireland's leading quality brand names throughout the world, and this type of dynamism, energy and vision will be a great asset tourist board," says Bill Power.

FOR INFORMATION:
Siobhan Molloy/Ciara Sweeney, FCC. Tel: (01) 676 01 68 or (086) 817 50 66