Andrew Carey
LIMERICK hoteliers are encouraging students to consider a career in tourism as part of a national campaign run by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF).
Targeting students aged between 15 and 18 years, the ‘Get a Life in Tourism’ initiative aims to highlight the wide variety of career opportunities and educational courses available across the tourism and hospitality sector.
Limerick’s tourism and hospitality industry continues to act as a strong engine for economic growth and job creation, supporting 7,000 jobs and contributing an estimated €180 million a year to the local economy.
Shannon IHF Branch Chairwoman Elaina Fitzgerald-Keane said that hotel and hospitality was one of the region’s most successful industries and much of this success depended on its ability to make visitors feel welcome.
“We want to attract young, enthusiastic people who aspire to having an interesting, people-focused career. We’re encouraging students to explore the many options available, including hundreds of specialist third-level courses throughout the country for those interested in pursuing recognised qualifications. It is a thriving industry offering excellent career prospects, swift promotional opportunities and a life less ordinary where you get to meet and work with great people”, she said.
Confidence among hoteliers is steadily improving and this is supported by a number of factors including the retention of the 9 per cent VAT rate. As a result of this measure, 64 per cent of hotels and guesthouses have increased staffing levels over the last year while 55 per cent plan to take on further staff during the next 12 months.
As part of the campaign, the IHF is publishing a free print and digital Get a Life in Tourism magazine supported by Fáilte Ireland which will be distributed to over 700 second-level schools throughout the country.
See more on www.getalifeintourism.ie.
