8m tourists expected to visit Ireland next year as Star Wars effect lifts off

More than eight million tourists are expected to visit Ireland next year as the Star Wars effect will help bring a €4bn boost to the economy.

Tourism Ireland has launched its marketing drive to promote Ireland abroad next year and says it aims to surpass this year’s record performance and bring in 8.2m visitors next year.

This figure represents an increase of 4% on 2015 and is expected to deliver €4.4bn to the economy.