Tourism providing 2,600 jobs

THE tourism and hospitality sector in Louth supports 2,600 jobs and contributes some €74m to the local economy annually, according to the latest figures from the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF).

As Leaving Cert students across the country deliberate their choices ahead of the CAO deadline on 1st February, the Irish Hotels Federation has launched a campaign encouraging young people in Louth to consider a career in the tourism and hospitality sector, one of Ireland’s most successful industries.

The IHF has created a dedicated website, Get a Life in Tourism, supported by Fáilte Ireland, which offers comprehensive information on the many careers available and how to get started as well as the various courses available in Dundalk Institute of Technology.

A free print Get a Life in Tourism magazine is also being published, which will be distributed to over 700 second-level schools, including those in Louth.

Martin Daly, Chair of the Mourne, Boyne and Lakes branch of the IHF, which covers Louth commented: ‘ Tourism is Ireland’s largest indigenous industry, providing employment in every county in Ireland including Louth. It offers thousands of opportunities for young people interested in pursuing a career in tourism with enormous potential for professional development and advancement.’

‘We’re encouraging school leavers especially to explore the many options available, from ‘earn and learn’ chef programmes through to the wide selection of specialist third-level courses on offer throughout the country for those interested in obtaining a recognised qualification.

‘If you are looking for an exciting challenge, with endless career possibilities then tourism and hospitality is the path for you.’