Tuesday, 2nd December 2008

Hoteliers Welcome Tourism Renewal Group
Economic Environment Has Changed Drastically Since ‘New Horizons’

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) today welcomed the establishment of a high level group to re-examine Ireland’s tourism policy and programme priorities as set out in the New Horizons plan for 2003-2012. It stated that, given the challenging global and national economic environment, it is important that strategies for developing tourism reflect the difficult times facing the industry. The Group announced today will ensure that tourism development responds to this changing environment.

The Federation welcomed the commitment shown by Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen, TD, in setting up the Tourism Renewal Group and in ensuring Ireland’s tourist industry remains at the forefront of the Government’s agenda. Acknowledging the appointment of IHF President Matthew Ryan to the Group, the Federation states that, while the fundamental approach to tourism as set out in New Horizons continues to be valid, the economic environment facing the industry has changed drastically during the intervening period.

The IHF is committed to working closely with the Government as part of the Tourism Renewal Group to ensure the future viability and long term success of our Ireland’s tourism offering. This will involve a re-examination of Ireland’s tourism policy and programme priorities along with an injection of new thinking to tackle the challenges now faced by the industry. The calibre of the appointees announced today will ensure that Ireland’s strategic framework for tourism adapts quickly to today’s economic realities.

ENDS

FOR INFORMATION:

Siobhan Molloy / Eoin Quinn Tel: 01 6760168
Weber Shandwick Mobile: 086 817 5066 / 087 233 2191