Wednesday, 5th December 2007

Hotels Chief Welcomes Shannon Provision and Increased Tourism Marketing

Commenting on Budget 2008, Annette Devine, President, Irish Hotels Federation, states, “We broadly welcome measures announced today aimed at reaffirming consumer confidence and maintaining a strong and growing economy.”

Shannon & Western Regions – provision is step in the right direction
“The allocation of €5m towards rebranding the Irish tourism product and a tourism initiative specifically for the Shannon and Western region is welcomed. In relation to the Shannon region, the challenge is now to immediately roll out actions to urgently boost the Shannon and Westerns regions’ attractiveness as a destination to visit.

“The €4.5m to further improve the services provided by Fáilte Ireland is also welcomed.”

NDP – improved roads will assist spread tourism throughout the country
“We welcome the Government’s commitment to the delivery of the infrastructural improvements in the National Development Plan. The €74m allocation for national road improvements and €45m for non-national roads will facilitate a better spread of tourism throughout the country.”

Capital Funding for Energy Conversation
“The Federation welcomes the €13m capital fund for range of initiates to promote new technologies and increase awareness energy efficiencies.”

The IHF maintains that tourism is Ireland’s most important indigenous industry generating over €6 billion annually for the economy, of which €2.8 billion goes to the Exchequer, representing 3.8% of GNP.

ENDS

FOR INFORMATION:
Siobhan Molloy / Eoin Quinn Tel: 01 6760168
Weber Shandwick  Mobile: 086 8175066 / 087 2332191