Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would like to comment on the marketing of our tourism product, in particular to the British and German markets. During the past four years, the number of British tourists visiting Ireland has reduced by one million. Also, we appear to be getting only 1% of the German market vis-à-vis the almost 26 million of the German population who holiday abroad every year. Previously, Ireland was actively sold abroad by way of exhibition of our excellent tourism product at holiday fairs and so on. At one time it was the policy of Bord Fáilte to target English cities, particularly those closest to the airports. The same applied in regard to the Continent. There is too much emphasis these days on the Internet and no personal engagement with German and British consumers. We are probably neglecting this market. Through proper engagement we could significantly increase our market share.