The head of Tourism Ireland, the body which promotes Ireland abroad, has warned that the number of foreign tourists is set to fall further this year.
Paul O'Toole told the Dáil Public Accounts Committee that tourism from abroad fell by 3% in 2008.
Mr O'Toole said poor trading conditions in our major markets of the US, UK and Europe will mean pressure on visitor numbers.
Research carried out for Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland has highlighted concerns about the general cost of holidaying in Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland's Shaun Quinn said 93% of visitors have expressed satisfaction with their holidays here.
Mr Quinn said taxis and hotels are seen as good value, but visitors have expressed concern about the cost of eating and drinking out.
He added however that this is now improving because of the current environment and greater competition.
