The ash cloud following the eruption of a volcano in Iceland brings disruption and worry to the Irish tourism sector.
Tourists are enjoying their visit to Dublin despite the impact of the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud. While the tourists are happy to be here, many working in the hospitality sector have far fewer reasons to be cheery.
Approximately 86 per cent of overseas visitors to Ireland arrive by air. Every day that Irish airports are closed, around 17,700 potential visitors are shut out. The estimated daily cost to the economy is €10 million. Many tour operators say that thousands of visitors have cancelled trips and want a clear message to be communicated that if anyone ends up stuck in Ireland, they will be looked after. Outbound tour operators have also seen a dip in bookings and they want a government compensation fund.
Minister for Tourism Mary Hanafin TD says that the government can not set up a specific fund but will use available funds to the best possible effect. Kevin Nolan, president of the Irish Tour Operators' Federation, says that this is not good enough as thousands of jobs are at stake. He wants a more positive plan put in place to assist the sector.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 9 May 2010. The reporter is Will Goodbody.
