Very positive CSO tourism data

Central Statistics Office (CSO) latest tourism data shows that the number of overseas visits to Ireland between February and April 2015 increased by 13.5% compared to the corresponding period last year.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe and Minister of State, Michael Ring, have said the continued strong growth in tourism is contributing to our economic recovery and the creation of jobs across the sector.

Minister Donohoe said, “As we enter the peak months for tourism, it is very encouraging that the growth trend witnessed in recent years is continuing in 2015 with a very strong performance for the first four months of the year. Thankfully the growth is not confined to any particular market with good growth being displayed by all of our key target overseas markets. Our overseas marketing efforts will continue in the months ahead to ensure the momentum is maintained, that jobs continue to be created and that tourism continues to pay its part in our future economic development’.

Comparing the three-month period February 2015 – April 2015 with the period February 2014 – April 2014:

* Overall trips to Ireland were up by 13.5% to 1,778,600 visits
* North America was up by 20.2%;
* Visits from mainland Europe were up by 14.7%;
* Visits from the rest of the world increased by 23.6%;
* Great Britain registered an increase of 9.8% in visits.

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said the figures represent ‘a stunning start to the year’. Our aim is to ensure that 2015 is the best year ever for Irish tourism.”