Cullen Launches Tourism Ireland's 2010 Global Marketing Plan

Martin Cullen T.D., Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism launched Tourism Ireland's Global Marketing Plan for 2010 in Dublin last week. 

Tourism Ireland which is funded by the Irish Government and the Northern Ireland Executive is responsible for marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a holiday destination. 

Speaking at the launch of the plan, entitled "Meeting the Challenges," Cullen said: "The Government fully recognises the important role that tourism can play in contributing to the country's economic recovery.  Tourism Ireland's Global Marketing Plan is a key component in realising the potential of the many millions of people who will take holidays and short breaks in 2010.  We want to capture as much of this business as possible for Ireland." 

Minister Cullen added: "I welcome the tactical marketing campaigns to target trade and consumers overseas, the impact of which was demonstrated this year, and also the new key promotions in business tourism, cultural tourism and the substantial increase in the number of overseas travel trade events and programmes to be promoted jointly with the tourism industry worldwide next year.

"Irish tourism has fundamental underlying strengths - quality product, image and welcoming reputation. Tourism can play a vital role for Ireland as part of an export-led economic recovery. 

"This was endorsed by the Tourism Renewal Group, which I established last year, under Maurice Pratt's chairmanship. The Group's Report, "Survival, Recovery and Growth - A Strategy for Renewing Irish Tourism, 2009-2013," gives a realistic perspective of Irish tourism in a changed world. It sets out a Framework for Action for the period to 2013, to deliver long-term sustainable growth."

Minister Cullen wished Chairman of Tourism Ireland, Mr Hugh Friel and CEO, Mr Niall Gibbons every success with the implementation of Tourism Ireland's Marketing Plan for 2010.