The tourism sector in Ireland has suffered the worst 18 months since the Gulf war and should be awarded a special fund to assist it to return to growth, according to the president of the Irish Hotels Federation.
Addressing the conference in Westport, Ms Mary Fitzgerald said the industry was not looking for compensation for losses suffered as a result of the foot-and-mouth crisis and September 11th attacks. However, a recovery fund of €20 million was needed immediately to increase the promotion of Ireland as a holiday destination and protect the 145,000 employees in tourism here. "This fund would not be a handout, as the State would benefit substantially from the outcome, as it has in the past. The Government and Exchequer are the main beneficiaries from tourism, receiving 57 cent of every euro spent by an overseas visitor."