Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke has launched Business Events 2030 – Ireland’s new business events strategy – at the Convention Centre Dublin.
The purpose of Business Events 2030 is to promote the development of Ireland’s world-class business events sector and realise the full economic benefits of business events for Ireland.
Business travel has long been recognised as a key driver for economic growth. As one of the highest-yielding tourism segments, it contributes more than €1bn to the economy annually, €290m to the Exchequer, and supports 22,000 jobs.
Business Events 2030 is an ambitious strategy that is a product of collaboration between the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, industry leaders from the tourism sector, and public bodies including IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Universities of Ireland and the Institute of Public Health. The strategy sets out a clear roadmap to drive an average annual revenue growth rate of 8% to 2030, benefitting the tourism ecosystem, our SMEs and local economies across the country.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke commented: “Business Events 2030 represents a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering economic growth through the promotion of Ireland as a fantastic location for business travel. This strategy refocuses our policy, placing more emphasis on economic targets, boosting both our indigenous tourism SMEs and our economy and highlights Ireland’s eco-friendly credentials when attracting business.”
Paul Kelly, Chief Executive, Fáilte Ireland added: “This strategy is a testament to our dedication to making Ireland a premier destination for business events. By focusing on innovation and sustainability, we are not only increasing revenue and employment in the tourism sector but also contributing to the broader industrial, scientific, medical, social, environmental and educational development in Ireland.”
Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive, Tourism Ireland stated: “Business Events travel is high value and by its nature often occurs midweek and outside of peak season, thereby aligning with ambitions to strengthen year-round tourism. Business Events 2030 will play a crucial role in positioning Ireland as a leader in the global Business Events market. Our collaborative efforts will ensure we attract high value business that brings overseas visitors and long-term benefits for the economy and communities.”
