1m fewer visitors but hopes tourism sector will recover

IRELAND had one million fewer visitors in the past year but tourist numbers are expected to pick up over the coming 12 months.

The continuing economic climate together with the expense of travelling to Ireland, along with natural problems such as the volcanic ash cloud and harsh winter conditions, were all contributory factors, according to the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation.

Following yesterday’s launch of the confederation’s annual report and preview of 2011, its chief executive Eamon McKeon said his hopes for a revival in the industry next year were based on a number of factors.