Five-star Kilkenny hotel hosts tourism industry leaders

The importance of regional tourism and sustainability initiatives were the key points discussed as Thomastown’s Mount Juliet Estate hosted the annual meeting of the Inbound Tourism Operators Association of Ireland (ITOA). 

Last year, the association delivered over 734,000 overseas visitors into Ireland; approximately 63% stayed in different locations around the island, with the remaining 37% spending their time in Dublin. Tourists handled by ITOA spent €622.7 million holidaying in Ireland.

As part of the meeting, members and invited guests spent the afternoon exploring Kilkenny’s tourism offers. Award-winning Kilkenny tour guide Nevin Coady accompanied the group to Malzard’s Pub in Stoneyford and provided an insightful overview of the city and county. The group were given the opportunity to meet suppliers, including Cushendale Woollen Mills, Jerpoint Glass Studio, Boat Trips, Highbank Orchards and Distillery, and Ballykeefe Distillery.

Smithwick's experience manager Ignacio Peregrina also brought the Smithwick’s Experience to Malzards.

In a demonstration of their commitment to sustainability, ITOA have donated €3,000 to the Nore River Catchment Trust, who collaborate with communities, landowners, organizations, and agencies to develop a community-led approach to improving and restoring water quality in the county.

Industry leaders in attendance at the meeting included Siobhan McManamy (Director of Markets & Partnerships, Tourism Ireland), Paul Kelly (CEO, Fáilte Ireland), John McGrillien (CEO, Tourism Northern Ireland), and Eoghan O'Mara Walsh (CEO, Irish Tourism Industry Confederation), alongside Ruth Andrews (Chairperson, Fáilte Ireland) and other key stakeholders.