New framework to support Ireland’s tourism industry in Programme for Government

With the announcement of Peter Burke TD as Minister leading the restructured Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Ireland’s tourism sector is set to receive significant government support in 2025 and beyond.

The Programme for Government outlines initiatives that recognise tourism as a key driver of economic growth. It introduces a new version of 2013’s The Gathering tourism campaign, now called the Year of the Invitation, alongside a new national tourism policy. The sector’s inclusion within the “Growing Our Economy” section highlights its importance as an economic engine.

Crowe Comment: Crowe welcomes the relocation of the Tourism brief to this important economic department, recognising the importance of tourism and hospitality to Ireland’s economy and employment.

Commitments to boost tourism

The Government has committed to enhancing access to Ireland’s tourism destinations and implementing strategies to strengthen the sector. Key initiatives include:

• VAT rate: The Government intends to reduce the VAT rate to 9% for food-based hospitality, entertainment and hairdressing in the next budget.
• Promoting Ireland of Islands: Developing a strategy to sustainably market Ireland’s smaller islands as unique tourist destinations.
• Reviewing national aviation policy: Maximising the use of Ireland’s airports to improve connectivity.
• Improving transport infrastructure: Working with local authorities and national bodies to enhance public transport options to key tourist sites, making travel more convenient for visitors.
• Expanding greenways and cycle routes: Continuing the development of scenic routes to attract more eco-conscious travellers.
• Enhancing blueways: Collaborating across borders to expand water-based tourism and recreational opportunities.
• Upgrading the Wild Atlantic Way: Partnering with local authorities and Fáilte Ireland to improve this iconic route and develop an innovative coastal route along the east and south coasts.
• Building careers in tourism: Creating sustainable, well-paid careers by expanding tourism and hospitality courses in collaboration with the Department of Further and Higher Education, supported by increased investment from the National Training Fund.
• Promoting food and beverage tourism: Showcasing Ireland’s finest local produce to enhance culinary tourism experiences.
• Publishing a National Tourism Policy: Implementing a vision for growing visitor numbers and employment in the sector through to 2030.

You can learn more about the Programme for Government here (pdf).

How Crowe can help

Crowe is Ireland’s leading consultancy practice for the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries. With unmatched expertise, we assist clients in the sale, acquisition and development of businesses across the sector, supporting owners, developers, financial institutions and industry stakeholders.

Our dedicated Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure division, Horwath HTL, is the oldest and largest consultancy practice of its kind globally and a member of the UNWTO. Since 1995, Crowe has produced the Ireland Annual Hotel Industry Survey, providing critical benchmarking data and analysis by region, classification and hotel size.

We bring together international experience and local insights to deliver tailored solutions. Our services include due diligence, appraisals and valuations for hospitality acquisitions, offering support for investors and funders.

To learn more about how we can help you make smart decisions today that create lasting value for your business, contact our HTL team.