Number Of Tourists Visiting Ireland Increases

The number of tourists visiting Ireland has increased by 13.5% between February 2015 and April 2015, compared to the corresponding period of 2014, according to data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD, said: "This is further good news for the tourism sector. 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.

(CD)