Decline in Foreign Tourism to Ireland Raises Concerns
Dublin: Ireland is experiencing a significant decline in foreign tourist arrivals, with Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures indicating a 30% drop compared to the previous year. Additionally, tourist expenditure has fallen by 31%, raising concerns about the economic impact on the hospitality sector.
Tourism Decline Accelerates
The downturn in foreign visitor numbers began in September 2024 and has since intensified. In February 2025, only 304,300 foreign tourists arrived in Ireland, marking a substantial 30% decrease from the same period in 2024.
Key statistics from the CSO report include:
- Total visitor expenditure: €196 million (down 31% year-on-year).
- Average spending per visitor: Declined by 1.8%.
- Total nights spent in Ireland: 18 million (down 33% from 2024).
- Average length of stay: 5 nights, compared to 6.2 nights the previous year.
The UK remains the largest source of tourists (49%), followed by the US (10%). Visiting family and friends was cited as the primary reason for travel by 37% of visitors.
Impact of Refugee Accommodations on Tourism
Independent TD Matty McGrath from Tipperary has criticised the government’s decision to convert many hotels and guesthouses into refugee centres, arguing that it has negatively affected Ireland’s tourism industry.
Reduced hotel availability for tourists has driven up accommodation prices, making travel to Ireland less affordable.
Rising energy costs have further contributed to higher hotel rates, deterring potential visitors.
Local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors, are feeling the strain as tourist footfall declines.
“Irish tourism is on the verge of collapse,” McGrath warned, adding that the government and opposition are engaged in political disputes rather than addressing the economic challenges facing the sector.
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