Travel sector to recruit 100 staff

Thriving sales this year have led a number of airlines, travel agents, and tour operators to launch a nationwide drive to recruit more than 100 staff.

One of the largest sectors recruiting are travel agents, who have seen a large increase in business in the first quarter of this year.

Pat Dawson, the chief executive of the Irish Travel Agents’ Association (ITAA), said members are searching for 25 people to fill positions across a broad array of roles, from sales to administration.

“Since the beginning of 2013 our members throughout the country have all reported a significant increase in business.

“A large proportion of this increase is being generated from clients who are moving back from the internet to the trusted travel agent to provide sound, personal, face-to face expert advice, along with excellent value holidays and travel.”

The demand for more staff is not limited to travel agents. It is also being reported that airlines, tour operators, and travel consultants are searching for cabin crew, destination representatives, and sales consultants.

Mr Dawson said some travel agents are opening new branches such is the extent of the increased activity and said customers are increasingly realising that online companiesdo not provide all the information, security, or the value customers want.

“As leaders in the field of travel, our highly trained and experienced members are in a prime position to provide safe and secure advice to the travelling public.

“Not only can the travelling public be assured of obtaining the best value deals available, but they can also relax in the knowledge that they are secured by our members’ bonds and government licences — a key point of difference when compared to internet bookings, which can be an extremely unsafe way of booking.”

The ITAA has reported an 8% increase in bookings this year compared to last year and said that the industry “is most definitely in recovery”.

Among the airlines, tour operators, and travel agents currently recruiting staff are: British Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, American Holidays, and Sunway Holidays. The Travel Broker, BCD Travel, gohop.ie, Carlson Wagonlit, Joe Walsh Tours, Travel Counsellors, George Barter Travel, Emer Hannon Travel Services, and John Galligan Travel are also recruiting.