New tourism plan could support the creation of a 'Tipperary Food Festival'

A local councillor in Tipperary has said that he welcomes the publication this week of a new tourism plan, and has suggested it could be used to support the creation of a food festival in Tipperary.

Fine Gael councillor Declan Burgess said he welcomed the new plan, which was published yesterday. "I warmly welcome the publication today of A New Era for Irish Tourism, the new five-year National Tourism Policy launched by my colleague, Minister Peter Burke. This marks a hugely significant moment for Ireland’s tourism and indeed hospitality sector, and it represents a vital boost for communities right across the country," the councillor began.

"Tourism remains one of our most important indigenous industries, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and sustaining thousands of small and medium enterprises in both urban and rural Ireland.

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"What is particularly welcome in this new policy is its strong focus on supporting tourism SMEs and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are more evenly shared, so that smaller towns, and rural communities can fully participate in and benefit from sectoral growth.

"Equally encouraging is the policy’s commitment to developing a broader and more diverse tourism offering. This includes enhanced support for culinary tourism, food trails, local festivals, heritage experiences, marine tourism, walking routes and improved connectivity. Such initiatives will not only strengthen our visitor economy but will also continue to showcase the depth of Ireland’s culture, landscapes and hospitality. I wholeheartedly believe our food tourism has significant untapped potential for our country.

"As a passionate advocate for Irish tourism and hospitality, I look forward to working with the relevant agencies, local communities and industry stakeholders to ensure this strategy is delivered in Tipperary with ambition, fairness and long-term vision. I firmly believe it presents a real opportunity to revitalise tourism across Ireland, creating sustainable jobs, enabling local enterprise and celebrating all that makes our country unique.

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"I have spoken at several Council meetings about the potential for Tipperary County Council to spearhead a dedicated food festival for the county. Tipperary Tourism and the Tipperary Food Producers Network are both ambitious, and I have long advocated for our local authority to lead on the promotion of our food sector and vibrant hospitality industry.

"A Tipperary Food Festival — similar to the highly successful events in Dungarvan and Dingle — would attract visitors, promote local business and ensure that revenue stays within our communities. I will continue to champion this initiative, and I am encouraged that the new National Tourism Policy strongly supports this very concept," he concluded.