Tourism body urges ringfencing of €125m for west

At least €125 million of the €250 million total the Government proposes spending on tourism should be ringfenced for the west of Ireland, a leading industry body says.

A report published by the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation (ITIC) states the industry is worth €2.6 billion to the western seaboard, where it employs more than 100,000 people.

The confederation's document, Tourism in the West – an Engine for Growth and Jobs, says at least 50 per cent of the €250 million the Government set aside for tourism should be spent there. "ITIC would suggest that at least €125 million be earmarked for the west for the period 2016 to 2020," it argues.

The organisation points out prioritising tourism’s development in the west makes good economic sense as it is one of the few industries with a proven record for creating jobs and wealth in the region.

Its report says the counties on the Atlantic coast depend more heavily on tourism than any other part of the country. It says one in five businesses in Kerry and Leitrim is in the industry, while the proportion is similar in Donegal.

Vital sector

It adds tourism accounts for 15 per cent of all businesses in

Mayo

, Clare, Sligo,

Galway

and Limerick. “This compares to less than 10 per cent along the east coast,” the report states.

According to the study, 85 per cent of the west’s visitors fly into the country, but the majority come via Dublin. It says Cork, Shannon and the regional airports should develop direct routes from their main markets.

The confederation highlights a shortfall in roads, environmental services and broadband and warns investment is needed to bring this infrastructure up to standard.

Employers’ group Ibec recently warned the west’s infrastructure is “not fit for purpose” and predicted regional imbalances would continue if this is not tackled.

The ITIC wants to see the Wild Atlantic Way broadened from a tourist route to a destination that offers a wider experience for visitors.