Jerry Buttimer, TD, has said Cork should benefit from a major domestic tourism package launched recently by the Government, which includes a €1 million Discover Ireland Summer 2011 promotion campaign and discounts of up to 50% for weekend rail travel.
Launched recently by Ministers Leo Varadkar, Michael Ring and Alan Kelly, Deputy Buttimer said the package is great news for both Irish holidaymakers and tourism businesses, and should bring many more visitors to Cork.
“This package should bring many more visitors to Cork. But it’s also great news for anyone thinking of taking a holiday at home – whether it’s a weekend break or a longer holiday.
“Irish holidaymakers can take advantage of a 50% discount on online rail tickets for Saturday travel and some Sunday services from anywhere in Ireland.
“As part of the scheme to incentivise rail travel €20 day return adult tickets will be available from Dublin to Cork on Saturdays, making our city centre the ideal place to spend a summer Saturday. While in Cork visitors have easy access to interesting attractions such as the Beamish Brewery Tour, Coal Quay Market, Cork Butter Museum, Cork City Gaol, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral and The English Market.
“Visitors can also get free tours informing them of both historical and contemporary Cork using audio iWalks, Flavours of Cork and Creative Cork, a progressive joint initiative of Cork City Council and Failte Ireland.
“The 2011 Discover Ireland promotional campaign will be the biggest ever with €1 million allocated. Fáilte Ireland is making it easier than ever to find out what to do, and where to go. It has launched a new smart phone application which will tell you what’s on, what to do, and where to stay, wherever you are in the country. And its website has been revamped with more video content and an enhanced search facility.
“Queen Elizabeth II and President Barack Obama were bowled over by what they saw in Ireland. Tourism is key to our economic recovery, and the Government has made the industry a priority. Thanks to the tourism focus in the Jobs Initiative, Irish tourism businesses have every reason to offer even better value for money this year.
“As a city we gave a rebel welcome to a royal visitor and now we are ready to welcome others who want to holiday here. These tourism initiatives make Cork an even more attractive location for anyone holidaying at home this summer. Easy and cheap access to the City Centre, lots of attractions and free tours make Cork the ideal place for a day trip or a weekend away.”