What Is the Difference Between Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you may have come across two organizations that promote tourism in the country – Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland. While they both have a similar goal of promoting Irish tourism, there are some key differences between the two.

What is Failte Ireland?
Failte Ireland is the National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland. It was established in 2003 and its primary objective is to promote tourism in Ireland and support the development of the tourism industry. The organization focuses on developing and marketing tourism products within Ireland, as well as providing training and support to those working in the industry.

Failte Ireland’s Functions

  • Developing and promoting tourism products within Ireland.
  • Providing training and support to businesses within the tourism industry.
  • Conducting research on Irish tourism.
  • Promoting sustainable tourism practices.

What is Tourism Ireland?
Tourism Ireland is responsible for marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a holiday destination. It was established in 2000 as a merger between Bord Failte (the former Irish tourist board) and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. The organization markets both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland internationally.

Tourism Ireland’s Functions

  • Promoting Irish tourism overseas through advertising campaigns, trade shows, and other promotional activities.
  • Working with travel agents and tour operators to develop packages for visitors to the island of Ireland.
  • Providing information on travel to the island of Ireland through its website and social media channels.
  • Fostering relationships with airlines, ferry companies, and other travel partners to increase access to the island of Ireland.

The Differences Between Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland
While both Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland work to promote Irish tourism, they have different areas of focus. Failte Ireland is primarily focused on developing and promoting tourism products within Ireland itself, while Tourism Ireland is responsible for marketing the island of Ireland as a whole to international visitors.

Another key difference is that Failte Ireland provides support and training to businesses within the Irish tourism industry, while Tourism Ireland works with travel agents and tour operators overseas to develop packages for visitors to the island of Ireland.

Conclusion

While there are differences between Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, both organizations play an important role in promoting Irish tourism. Whether you’re planning a trip to the island of Ireland or you’re a business owner within the Irish tourism industry, it’s important to understand what each organization does and how they can help you.