Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, is today (Wednesday) welcoming the Government’s recognition of the very serious challenges facing the tourism sector in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
“The allocation in Budget 2020 of €40million for the tourism industry in a no-deal Brexit scenario is a significant investment. This will allow us to intensify our work to develop and support the tourism sector while also enhancing Ireland’s appeal as a tourist and conference destination,” according to Paul Kelly CEO of Fáilte Ireland.
“We also acknowledge the €7million supplementary tourism fund provided by Government for the remainder of 2019. We will immediately use the €1million allocation to Fáilte Ireland to support tourism businesses along the border counties,” added Paul Kelly.
“It is worth noting that Fáilte Ireland’s operating budget was increased last year by just over €7million by Government and this allowed us to provide more business supports, investment and mentoring, particularly along the border counties as we help prepare the sector for Brexit.”
“This increase also enabled us to create new domestic campaigns such as Taste the Island1 - an all-island food and drink initiative. Fáilte Ireland’s Budget 2020 allocation, announced by Ministers Shane Ross and Brendan Griffin this afternoon, ensures the momentum behind our work this year can continue as the 2019 increase in our operating budget has been maintained into 2020,” added Paul Kelly.
“In addition to the current budget allocation, Fáilte Ireland’s capital allocation this year was significant and this has also been increased for 2020 by €8million. 28 new and enhanced visitor attractions opened across the country following Fáilte Ireland investment of almost €19million. A further 15 are due to open in 2020 through our capital allocation.”
“The €38million funding directed to the aviation sector in Budget 2020, particularly for regional airports, is to be warmly welcomed. Access is the bedrock of the tourism sector so this is a significant announcement for tourism combined with the allocation for greenways, cycling infrastructure and for Ryder Cup 2026 preparations.”
“All of this investment by Government is welcome given the very serious challenges ahead for the tourism industry. The overall softening of outbound tourism from our major markets, increased cost pressures combined with the impact of Brexit are real challenges that the tourism industry now face,” concluded Paul Kelly.
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