YOUNG Limerick people are being encouraged to explore employment opportunities in the tourism industry as part of a nationwide recruitment drive.
Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Patrick O’Donovan, who launched the initiative last week, highlighted the many opportunities for worthwhile careers that are now available in the world of tourism.
The industry-led programme is designed to enable second-level students aged 15-18 to explore the full range of exciting career paths and options available.
Targeting post-primary schools and youth reach centres in Limerick and across the country, the initiative is being run by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) and the Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI) in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.
It includes an interactive online programme for students and teachers (Tourism Insight) and a free digital and print magazine on tourism career options (Get a Life in Tourism).
With over 40 different career choices, there is a wide range of options for young people across areas such as food and beverage; catering; accommodation services; reception; leisure centre and spa facility management; sales and marketing; human resources; IT; management and finance.
Minister O’Donovan said; “Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important economic sectors, demonstrating great prospects for continued growth. The various strands of the new tourism careers programme should grab the attention of our young people and open their eyes to the exciting employment and development opportunities in this growing sector.
More can be found at www.tourisminsight.ie or at www.getalifeintourism.ie