Sir, - It is a sad irony that the theme of World Tourism Day on September 27th was: "Tourism: a tool for peace and dialogue among civilisations".
One of the most worrying aspects of the current international crisis is the effect on tourism, at home and abroad. This is felt most strongly among those whose jobs and livelihoods are at risk from the economic downturn. Equally important, however, is the fact that tourism promotes contact with, and understanding of, other cultures.
It is the very diversity of culture, language and belief that makes tourism the world's fastest growing industry. It is precisely the tolerance and respect for diversity and difference that tourism helps to encourage which is needed at this difficult time.
It is important that members of the public are not discouraged from seeking out and enjoying what other cultures (on this island and elsewhere) have to offer.
It is equally important that governments, while correctly mindful of their citizens' safety and furnishing them with the information to make informed decisions, don't discourage them from doing so. - Yours, etc.,
Ray Shanks, Chairman, Hospitality Ireland, Upper Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2.