‘Radical measures' needed to protect tourism industry
Ireland's tourism industry is facing serious threats and needs radical measures to make it more competitive, according to a report being released today by the Tourist Industry Confederation.
The report says Ireland is no longer a low-cost destination and the industry, therefore, needs to concentrate on improved quality, product innovation and marketing.
It also calls for more emphasis on the environment and heritage.
The Tourist Industry Confederation says this will take ongoing Government commitment to tourism, greater local authority interest in the sector and stronger leadership from within the industry.
The body is calling for investment of €210m over the next seven years, as well as the replacement of local authority rates with a new local income tax based on profitability rather than valuations.
