Ireland's Association for Adventure Tourism (IAAT) is calling for emergency support from Government, banks and the insurance industry as the adventure and activity tourism sector has been decimated by the Covid-19 pandemic crisis.
The industry - the majority of which is extremely seasonal - is seeing the closure of businesses and job losses since the outbreak of Covid-19.
A recent survey by IAAT showed that compared to the first six months of 2019, the sector is facing a 72% drop in turnover, with 62% of jobs lost in the industry.
It added that only weeks into this crisis, over 13% of businesses are already facing permanent closure.
Some immediate actions proposed by IAAT include an immediate review of the VAT rate, the availability of interest-free bank loans and breaks in insurance policies.
The Association has added its voice to other sectors in imploring the insurance industry to play their part in the national recovery by offering flexibility for businesses with their current policy cover.
The IAAT said it has never been more important for Irish tourism businesses to come together, to help mitigate damage in the short term and give the industry the best the best chance to recover in what will be extremely challenging months - and possibly years - ahead.
IAAT's chief executive Brendan Kenny said that like so many other sectors, its members are devastated by the impact of this unprecedented Covid-19 crisis.
"Our primary focus is the health and safety of our members, their families and their customers. However, we must also look to the recovery phase and we are asking Government, our banks and the insurance industry to support us in saving businesses and jobs," he stated.
IAAT chairman Maurice Whelan said people working in the activities sector make a living from dealing with the ever-changing outdoor environment every day and it must now apply that same mindset to overcome this incredible challenge.
"As the World Tourism Organization said this week, it's important to emphasise tourism's unique ability to lead local and national growth. However, we do need immediate help from Government, banks and the insurance industry," he added.
