Ireland is a country that has a lot to offer to tourists. From stunning landscapes and historic landmarks to vibrant cities and friendly people, it’s no wonder that tourism is a significant part of the Irish economy.
But just how important is it? Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
The Importance of Tourism in Ireland
Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important industries, both in terms of revenue and employment. According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the sector contributed €9.4 billion ($11 billion) to Ireland’s economy in 2019, accounting for 4% of the country’s GDP.
In addition to generating revenue, tourism also creates jobs. In 2019, the industry provided employment for over 260,000 people across Ireland, making up around 11% of total employment in the country.
The Impact of COVID-19
Unfortunately, like many countries around the world, Ireland’s tourism industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions and lockdowns have led to a significant drop in visitors, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat.
According to Fáilte Ireland, the country’s national tourism development authority, overseas visitor numbers fell by 83% in 2020 compared to the previous year. This has had a huge impact on businesses that rely on tourism for their livelihoods.
However, there is hope that things will improve as vaccines are rolled out and travel restrictions are lifted. The Irish government has announced plans to invest €55 million ($65 million) into supporting the tourism industry as it begins its recovery.
What Percentage of Ireland’s Economy Is Tourism?
As mentioned earlier, tourism contributes around 4% of Ireland’s GDP. While this may not seem like a huge percentage, it’s important to remember that every industry plays a role in shaping an economy.
To put it into perspective, the agriculture and fishing sector, which is often seen as a cornerstone of Ireland’s economy, contributed 1.4% to GDP in 2019. Meanwhile, the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, another major player in the Irish economy, contributed 28%.
The Future of Tourism in Ireland
While the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly had a negative impact on Ireland’s tourism industry, there are reasons to be optimistic about its future.
The country’s natural beauty, rich history and culture, and warm hospitality will always be draws for visitors from around the world. The Irish government has also stated its commitment to investing in the industry to help it recover and grow in the coming years.
Ultimately, tourism will continue to play an important role in Ireland’s economy and society for many years to come.
- Contributed €9.4 billion ($11 billion) to GDP in 2019
- Made up 4% of Ireland’s GDP
- Provided employment for over 260,000 people
- Overseas visitor numbers fell by 83% in 2020 due to COVID-19
- Irish government plans to invest €55 million ($65 million) into supporting tourism industry recovery
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism is a vital part of Ireland’s economy. While it may have taken a hit due to COVID-19, it remains an important source of revenue and employment for many people across the country. With continued investment and support from both the public and private sectors, there is every reason to believe that Ireland’s tourism industry will bounce back stronger than ever before.