Irish tourism firms in drive to increase overseas tourists to Ireland

A drive is getting underway to attract more visitors to Ireland.

Irish tourism businesses will be taking part in almost 8,500 sales meetings over the next six weeks, with 275 international tour operators.

There was a 12% increase in overseas visitors to Ireland between January and July and it is hoped the markets can be further developed.

Holidaymakers are also being urged to see County Offaly as 'Ireland's Hidden Gem'.

It is part of a €100,000 branding campaign launched this morning which it is hoped will create as many as 700 new jobs for the area.

The county is planning to more than double the number of domestic and overseas tourists it attracts by 2020.