The Government has launched a new business events strategy to promote Ireland as a destination for corporate events and business travel.
According to the Department of Enterprise, business travel is one of the highest-yielding tourism segments, contributing more than €1bn to the economy annually, €290m to the Exchequer, and supporting 22,000 jobs.
The new strategy ‘Business Events 2030’ sets out a roadmap to drive an average annual revenue growth rate of 8% to 2030.
It involves a collaboration between the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, industry leaders from the tourism sector, and public bodies including IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Universities of Ireland and the Institute of Public Health.
“This strategy refocuses our policy, placing more emphasis on economic targets, boosting both our indigenous tourism SMEs and our economy and highlights Ireland’s eco-friendly credentials when attracting business,” said Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke.
Paul Kelly, Chief Executive, Fáilte Ireland said the strategy was part of efforts to make Ireland a premier destination for business events.
“By focusing on innovation and sustainability, we are not only increasing revenue and employment in the tourism sector but also contributing to the broader industrial, scientific, medical, social, environmental and educational development in Ireland,” Mr Kelly said.
Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive, Tourism Ireland said that business event travel is high value and often occurs midweek and outside of peak season, thereby aligning with ambitions to strengthen year-round tourism.
“Our collaborative efforts will ensure we attract high value business that brings overseas visitors and long-term benefits for the economy and communities,” Ms Mansergh said.
