Festivals and events to play key role over the weekend
As the bank holiday weekend approaches and towns and villages across the country prepare to host national and local festivals and events, Fáilte Ireland today published figures into how these events impact the economy.
On the domestic front, 40% of Irish adults attend a festival at some point during the year and with many staying in local accommodation while there, festivals generate in excess of 2 million accommodation bed-nights in Ireland from the domestic market alone.
From an international perspective, figures show that approximately 300,000 overseas holidaymakers attended a festival or cultural event each year and spend on average €900 each while in Ireland. This equates to more than a quarter of a billion Euro of tourism spend.
Speaking today, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring T.D. said –
“Festivals and events are an extremely important part of tourism. They are an integral part of what Ireland offers as a destination while, at the same time, afford an opportunity for local people to ‘hook’ increased visitors and revenue into their community.”
This year Fáilte Ireland will support almost 200 festivals across the country as part of a €4 million tourism package.
Shaun Quinn, CEO of Fáilte Ireland stressed the importance of festivals for Ireland and the tourism sector –
“Wherever you go around Ireland this weekend, there will be festivals and things to see and do everywhere. Behind all the fun and enjoyment, lies a strong business case. The simple matter is, interesting and attractive festivals bring people into this country and encourage people to travel throughout the country.”
He continued –
“There are also clear economic benefits resulting from festivals with research showing that festivals generate over €440 million in economic activity each year. It is also estimated that the additional revenue generated by festivals supports up to 9,000 extra jobs.”
Mr Quinn also said the recent spell of good weather has definitely given a boost to the tourism sector with a ‘spike’ in Irish people holidaying here and he is hoping it returns again this weekend.
“Irish home-holidaymakers are very weather dependent and traditionally will book their breaks at the last minute. If a summer is bad, we will usually see a last-minute dash to traditional Mediterranean sunspots. This year – with the good weather – there’s been a rush to traditional Irish holiday spots. Galway City, Westport, Killarney, Dingle, West Cork and Clare are among the places that have seen a boost in Irish holidaymakers.”
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Louise Tolerton, Press Officer
086 6086578 / 01 8847135
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