Thursday 17 November 2005. Paul O'Toole, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland welcomed the announcement today by John O'Donoghue TD, Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism that the Government will increase its Tourism Marketing Fund by 12% to €40m. 'We have just returned from World Travel Market where it was highly evident that Ireland is facing intense competition in the international marketplace. It is now more vital than ever that we maintain a strong marketing presence in our target markets all year round. The increase of 12% is therefore extremely welcome as it will enable us to deliver our core marketing programme, which will include an increased focus on e-marketing, as well as delivering niche and product marketing programmes on behalf of Fáilte Ireland. The additional funding will also help us to respond to the issue of regionality, which continues to pose a challenge for the industry, as well as sustaining and developing access routes to these shores. This commitment of an increased investment by Government along with yesterday's welcome announcement on the Convention Centre has meant it's been a good week for Irish tourism,' he concluded.
Tourism Ireland will launch details of its 2006 overseas marketing plans to industry next month including the unveiling of a new suite of advertising and promotional materials.
Despite a challenging start to the year, latest available statistics show that Tourism Ireland is on track to reach its target of increasing visitor numbers to over 8 million this year, the highest ever number of overseas visitors to the island of Ireland.
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For more info contact Fiona Scott, Tourism Ireland. 01-476-3429