Ireland is a Key Competitor in the Tourism Angling Market

An International market research report has revealed that Ireland is a key competitor in the market for British, French and German anglers. The report, commissioned by the Marine Institute, will be launched today, (October 20, 2000) by Mr. Fahey T.D., Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources, at an Overseas Angling Tourism Seminar in Galway.

"£24 million has been secured for the development of the Tourism Angling over the next 5 years under the National Development Plan", said the Minister. "This report will help underpin a focused approach to marketing and promotion to ensure that this money is invested effectively, by matching Ireland's angling product to the needs and desires of the target markets" he concluded.

According to the report, Ireland is a popular destination for game and coarse angling among the British and French Anglers, but also faces stiff competition from Scotland. Key attributes identified by foreign anglers that could give Ireland the competitive edge are the unspoilt nature of the environment, the availability and quality of wild fish stock, the possibility for seclusion and the famous Irish welcome.

These attributes meet key criteria identified by anglers from each country. When choosing an angling holiday destination, German anglers attach importance to the quality and quantity of fish, French anglers are more concerned about the quality of the natural environment, while British anglers are concerned about the perceived distance. It is clear that Ireland has the potential to meet all these requirements.

"Ireland must focus on markets that show the most growth potential", said Anne Wilkinson, Programme Manager Water–based Tourism and Leisure, Marine Institute, "as the findings recommend, there is a clear need to tailor promotional activity for the specialist angler in all three markets to maximise potential return", she continued.

The Tourism Angling Seminar will bring together experts to discuss the market research findings and identify how to improve Ireland's share of the foreign angling market. Outline details of the tourism sub-angling measure within the NDP 2000 – 2006 will also be available.

The report 'Overseas Angling Tourism: An overview of the potential market from Britain, France and Germany' was commissioned by the Marine Institute in co-operation with Bord Fáilte and the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources. It is available from the Marine Institute.  

ENDS