11.2million overseas tourists this year spend €6.1billion in the Irish economy

Dublin Airport hits 30million passengers

IRELAND has had a bumper year of tourism which saw 11.2 million overseas holidaymakers spending €6.1billion.

And there have been record numbers of visitors from North America, mainland Europe and Australia.

Industry bosses credited campaigns including the annual Global Greening initiative on St Patrick’s Day and Star Wars being filmed in Co Kerry as contributing to the success.

Tourism Minister Brendan Griffin said: “It looks like 2018 will be another record year.

“The latest figures indicate the number of overseas visitors to our shores continues to grow, as does the revenue generated by them.

“The sector supports approximately 260,000 jobs all across the country, therefore the importance of the sector cannot be overstated. Revenue gener- ated by tourism reaches all parts of the country, bringing muchneeded jobs and income to areas with otherwise limited economic activity.

“Our focus going forward is to ensure that we continue to grow in a sustainable way and to further build on the success that the regions have experienced through initiatives such as the Wonders Of The DUBLIN Airport has set a new record of 30 million passengers this year.

It’s the first time in the hub’s 78-year history that number has been reached.

It’s a 6% rise with growth reported in the Wild Atlantic Way and The Call of the Wild.

“The tourism action plan 2019 to 2021, which is due to be published by my department, will outline some key actions which will underpin the continued growth of the sector in coming years.

“The additional funding European, long haul and transatlantic markets.

Managing Director Vincent Harrison said: “I’d like to thank our customers, passengers, staff and our partners, all of whom played a role in helping us reach this historic milestone.” secured for the sector in the Budget will also help drive the industry”

Tourism Ireland chief executive Niall Gibbons said: “Throughout the year, we undertook a packed programme of promotions to bring Ireland to the attention of travellers everywhere.

“A major focus of our activity was Ireland’s Ancient East, Dublin, the Wild Atlantic Way and the North.

“Other important themes have included screen tourism and, in particular, global smashes such as Game Of Thrones and Star Wars.”

Last month, Tourism Ireland launched its marketing plans to promote the country next year.

The strategy includes a target to grow overseas visitor revenue by 6% to €6.5billion for the economies on either side of the border.

That’s the growth target Tourism Ireland chiefs have set for next year