The new tourism policy sets out a clear and achievable ambition to enhance the economic and social contribution of Irish tourism
The new policy sets out a clear and achievable ambition to enhance the economic and social contribution of Irish tourism as a critically important employer, supporting one in ten jobs nationally – including over 69,000 people employed directly by hotels and guesthouses.
IHF Chief Executive Paul Gallagher says:
“As Ireland’s most regionally dispersed indigenous employer, tourism is a key cornerstone of our nation’s economic prosperity. This is clearly recognised throughout the Government’s new tourism strategy with a very welcome commitment to supporting businesses, increasing employment and delivering sustainable long-term growth.”
“Today’s announcement builds on the decision earlier this year to move the tourism portfolio to within a reconfigured Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment led by Minister Peter Burke, thereby bringing greater economic focus and a more coherent and coordinated approach to policy planning for our sector. It also follows the welcome decision in Budget 2026 to reduce the rate of VAT on food services for struggling hospitality businesses that are facing enormous cost pressures.”
“By placing tourism at the heart of Government policy, this new tourism plan will help ensure the right conditions are created to support the long-term development of our industry. As we look to strengthen competitiveness and sustainability, our hotels sector stands ready to play its role in helping to ensure Irish tourism lives up to its potential as a major engine of economic prosperity.”
The IHF welcomes the following policy targets set out by the Government:
- Overseas tourism revenue to grow to €9 billion by 2031 (+6% per annum excluding carrier fares)
- Domestic tourism revenue to grow to €5.8 billion by 2031 (+7% per annum)
- Prioritise growth in the off-peak season (October to May)
- Grow visitor numbers by at least 7% per annum in less mature and emerging regions within Ireland
- Increase tourism employment by at least 9% by 2031 (compared with 2024)
- Reduce tourism-related emissions by 45% by 2030 (compared with 2018 levels)
- Adoption of advanced digital tools by at least 90% of tourism SMEs by 2031
