GENERAL ELECTION 2016
Dear Member,
The Irish Hotels Federation is carrying out a nationwide lobbying campaign during the General Election calling for decisive action by the next Government to address key issues facing our industry. As part of this, our branch is engaging with the main local candidates on the proposals outlined in our policy document to ensure Irish tourism lives up to its full potential as a major engine for job creation and growth.
I would ask that you support these efforts in your local constituency as this is an important opportunity for hotels and guesthouses to highlight the key challenges facing our sector.
We’re calling for decisive action by the next Government on a number of issues, including:
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Providing greater cost competitiveness within the Irish economy
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Restoring tourism marketing funding to support long-term market growth
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Allocating additional funding for tourism product and infrastructure
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Investing in people, skills and training – including vocational and craft training
The active support and participation of all our branch members in the lobbying campaign is vital to ensure we receive a good hearing. We’re seeking your help as a member of the Federation to assist in the election campaign by:
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Familiarising yourself with the IHF Policy Document attached, raising the key issues directly with candidates in your area and seeking their support for the Federation’s policies (click HERE for Speaking Points and HERE for contact details for candidates).
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Writing to candidates in your area that you have a relationship with and stressing the importance of the tourist industry at local level - Click HERE to see the IHF Policy Document.
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Distributing to staff a list of questions they can pose to candidates when they meet them. Click HERE to download. Posting to your suppliers (particularly any personal contacts), the summary of issues facing our sector to encourage their support. (These materials can be tailored with you premises name, logo etc.) Click HERE to download
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Advising your Branch of any commitments received from candidates for our proposals.
As you are aware, a lot of political party activity takes place in hotels during election time, with party spokespersons and local candidates in attendance. Where possible, you should diplomatically avail of the opportunity to highlight with them the IHF’s issues on these occasions.
Thank you for your support. If you have any queries or require further material or advice, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Denyse Campbell
IHF Dublin Branch Chair