Coronavirus: Tourism industry braces itself for 'crucial week'

The next week is being viewed as crucial for the chances of the Irish tourism industry withstanding the threat to business posed by the coronavirus.

Pat Dawson, chief executive of the Irish Travel Agents Association, said there remains up to 40% available overseas summer capacity still to be booked by Irish holidaymakers; and they, along with airlines and hotels are becoming increasingly nervous. Airline shares have already been rocked this week by virus uncertainty.