In considering the performance on a market by market basis, the indications are encouraging. Ireland is set to increase its share in many of its major tourism markets this year, despite the intense competition that is now such a feature of international tourism. Ireland has managed to increase numbers from Britain by over 2% in the first six months of this year even though outbound tourism has been flat. Similarly, in mainland Europe, Ireland appears to be outperforming its main rivals in Germany, France, Italy and Spain. The North American market also appears to be turning the corner with strong growth achieved this year for the first time since 2000.