Another tough year for tourism predicted

Failte Ireland is predicting 2010 will be another tough year for Irish tourism.

Industry revenue fell by 17% last year to €5.2bn as the number of overseas visitors dropped to a five-year low.

The group is to invest €21m into business, sporting and cultural events in a bid to bolster the tourism sector.

Chairman Redmond O'Donoghue said he hopes this is the year the industry turns the corner.

"2009 was a very, very tough year," he said.

"2010, I would hope, would be the last of the tough years, which would prepare us for some growth in 2011."