IHF welcomes tourism policy review

The Irish Hotels Federation has welcomed the Tourism Policy Review Group report into the future of Irish tourism.

Described by Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue as ‘the most comprehensive tourism report in the last decade, the IHF stated the report will play its part in assisting with the report’s recommendations.

According to IHF President Jim Murphy, “Irish tourism is arguably the most successful sector of Irish owned enterprise since the foundation of the State.

“However, we must take measures to enable the industry become more competitive in order that the country can benefit from the strong growth envisaged in international tourism,” he added.

Murphy also said that in relation to cost competitiveness in particular, the Government had its part to play.

He called on the Government to take ‘resolute action’ to reduce inflation to the Eurozone average and has welcomed the report’s insistence that there should be no further increases in excise duties or VAT in the 2004 budget.

The IHF also welcomed the recommendation that the Ireland US bi-lateral air agreement be re-negotiated immediately in advance of an EU-US aviation agreement.

This they said would remove US gateways constraints and maximise the benefits to Ireland from additional air services and enhance visitor flow.

An additional competitive, fast-turn-around, terminal facility at Dublin Airport, with improved visitor reception facilities, were also called for to enhance Ireland’s image as a tourist destination.