West of 'rip-off Ireland' much cheaper than Dublin, study shows

A weekend in the west is 20 per cent cheaper on average than in Dublin, according to a study published by Ireland West Tourism.

"Rip-off Ireland" does not exist west of the Shannon in relation to the price of drink, accommodation, transport and leisure activities, Ireland West Tourism's chief executive officer, John Concannon, says.

A survey of costs in four western locations - Galway city, Clifden, Co Galway, Roscommon town and Westport, Co Mayo - found that the average price of a pint of Guinness was €3.39, compared with €3.93 in Dublin, while a glass of red wine in a restaurant was about 16 per cent cheaper.

A fillet steak cost about 14 per cent less, the study found, and a weekday round of golf was 46 per cent cheaper. The average price of a round in Dublin was €67.44, as against €36.28 in the west.

The study found that minimum fares for taxis in the west were 14 per cent cheaper, and a trip to the cinema was also 14 per cent less.

It says that accommodation is better value in the three western counties, with a double room in a three-star guesthouse costing about €125.70 in Dublin, compared with €90.80 in the west.

Mr Concannon says the results show that the west is taking competition "seriously", delivering excellent value for money.

"The tourism industry generates an economic impact for the west of €1.9 billion and it is imperative that we continue to offer the best value for money to grow the industry," he said.

Ireland West Tourism recently initiated a €1 million publicity campaign in co-operation with local authorities in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon and Fáilte Ireland.