Tourism fair could bring millions of euro to Galway

Galway is in the running to host Ireland’s largest tourism trade fair, which would bring over 300 international tour operators to the city and could be worth millions to the regional economy.

Fáilte Ireland is currently considering a number of locations in which to stage Meitheal 2015, where over 400 Irish tourism providers will gather with top overseas tour operators with a view to negotiating business for the year ahead.

The trade fair, which is in its 39th year, also serves as an opportunity to showcase the tourism potential of its host city to the world’s biggest tour operators, and could result in a major spike in visitor numbers in 2015.

Galway West TD Brian Walsh has been in contact with Fáilte Ireland over the prospect of Galway hosting the tourism summit, and is optimistic that the city can beat competition to host next year’s event.

“I’ve been in touch with the CEO of Fáilte Ireland to outline the outstanding merits of Galway as a possible venue for Meitheal 2015, and I’m very hopeful of bringing the trade fair to the city next year,” he said.

“This is a massive opportunity,” continued Deputy Walsh. “Top tour operators from countries as far afield as the US, Brazil, Australia and China will be coming here to do business and see what we have to offer.

“It would be a fantastic opportunity to showcase Galway to major players in the tourism industry and could be worth tens of millions to the regional economy,” he said.

“The organisers have missed an opportunity by holding the event in Dublin in previous years. It shows only one facet of the Irish tourism product. If operators are looking for diversity, natural beauty and value for money; they should be looking to the west.

“In the short term, it is a major event that would result over a thousand bed nights next April. But, in the medium term, it is an opportunity to put Galway on the map for international tour operators and could be worth a lot to the local economy.”

In making the case for Galway as the host city with Fáilte Ireland, Deputy Walsh has highlighted the city’s location at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, its proximity to regional airports, and its track record in hosting major national and international events.