Increase in tourism by 2% for 2002

The Minister for Tourism says the medium to long-term outlook for the industry here remains bright.

John O'Donoghue was speaking after figures from the Central Statistics office showed an increase of 2% in overseas visitors here.

Over six million people visited Ireland, which is close to the record level set in 2000. Minister O'Donoghue says there will be no let up in the Government's effort to promote the Irish tourism industry at home and overseas.