Tuesday 12th April 2005

REVIEW OF REGIONAL TOURISM AUTHORITIES LONG OVERDUE
States Hotels Chief

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has welcomed the completion of a review of the Regional Tourism Authorities, commissioned by Fáilte Ireland and carried out by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). It looks forward to examining in depth the contents of the report.

President of the Federation, Richard Bourke states, “For some time, the Federation has had concern about the lack of uniformity in the level of performance and effectiveness of some Regional Tourism Authorities. We feel that the publication of this report by Fáilte Ireland offers an opportunity to introduce, on a national basis, a method of best practice performance measurement, which would lead to a more effective use of limited resources and an efficient delivery of the marketing and promotional functions of each authority.”

“The marketing needs of Irish tourism are continuously changing as the international tourism market evolves. The regional tourism bodies need to work to maximum potential and in partnership with Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and the industry as a whole, to effectively communicate to our key markets the compelling reasons to visit and benefit from what Irish tourism has to offer. Tourism is a vital part of Ireland’s economy, and in some rural areas of Ireland it is the lifeblood of the local economy. It is essential that the correct supports and structures are in place right throughout the country, to support this most important of indigenous industries,” he continues.

The Federation cites recent research amongst consumers in the British market, undertaken by Tourism Ireland, as a proof point that action needs to be taken to address the downturn in this market, which appears to stem from the inadequate communicate of the compelling reason to visit here. It hopes the recommendations in this report will help put in place a tourism support infrastructure to assist tackle the uneven performance of tourism throughout the State.

The Federation, and a number of its members, were consulted by PwC during the preparation of the report, and are available should further consultation or assistance be required.

To view the PWC Review of the Regional Tourism Structures please click here:
http://www.failteireland.ie/?id=9&MedialD=92

ENDS

For information:

Siobhan Molloy / Niamh Boylan Tel: 01 6760168

Weber Shandwick FCC Mobile: 086 8175066 / 086 3809191