Free wifi to be expanded in Cork as part of tourism initiative

Cork City is set to roll out the second phase of its free city centre wifi as part of a new campaign to promote the location to tourists.

Stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry will today attend an event hosted by Cork City Council, where attendees will get an overview of the local authority’s tourism marketing strategy for Cork.

The launch of the second phase of the city’s free wifi programme is one of a number of initiatives due to be unveiled this evening, including the official unveiling of the city’s dedicated tourism website, www.cork.ie.

In 2013, the council announced that internet users on St Patrick’s St, Grand Parade, Paul St, and the Boardwalk in the city centre would be able to enjoy complimentary outdoor wifi, provided by Bitbuzz. Tonight’s event is expected to see free wifi made available at more locations.

Cork City Council chief executive Ann Doherty said the event will advise tourism stakeholders on how best to engage with the council regarding tourism marketing.

“Cork City Council is proud to take an active role in promoting Cork as an attractive destination on the world stage and to capitalise on the city’s status as a top-10 global city,” said Ms Doherty. “We have invested significantly in this area, including recent projects such as the Cork Bike Scheme, Elizabeth Fort, Fitzgeralds Park, and continue to support over 24 festivals in the city annually, which enrich the lives of those living in Cork as well as those who visit it.”

The council’s tourism, events, arts, and marketing (TEAM) unit is behind the initiatives.

“Our overall aim is to expand on current tourism levels and showcase all Cork has to offer visitors,” said Damien O’Mahony of TEAM. “We want to work in conjunction with the stakeholders, business owners and tour operators to ensure that each and every visitor has the best experience possible here in Cork.”

The council said the ultimate aim is to inform visitors of what is on offer, both before and during their visit, and that tour operators can include such information in their offerings to clients.

It also aims to ensure that those companies have easy access to whatever information and marketing materials they need, in order to promote the city as a destination.