Cliffs of Moher company seeks cost-saving moves

THE COMPANY operating the €32 million Cliffs of Moher visitor centre has confirmed that it is seeking cost-saving measures in response to an anticipated €200,000 loss this year.

Centre manager Katherine Webster said yesterday that management was “in discussion with staff about cost-saving measures during the quieter winter period to address the difficult economic situation”. She said no decisions had been taken.

The Clare County Council-owned company is a significant employer in north Clare, employing 24 staff year round and an additional 12 staff in summer.

Ms Webster said: “The tourism industry in Ireland in 2009 is under severe pressure. Current year-to-date visitor numbers at the Cliffs of Moher are 5 per cent down on 2008 levels.

“Given that the Central Statistics Office recently published figures showing overseas visits to Ireland were down by 13 per cent during the summer, the Cliffs of Moher had been beating the market in attracting visitors in tough times,” she said. “However, visitor spend on site has also seen a sharp fall on last year which is impacting our bottom line. We are seeking... to address a potential year-end deficit in excess of €200,000.”