The Government needs to invest nearly €1 billion into the tourism sector, according to an industry submission to the National Development Plan.

The Irish Tourist Industry Confederation (Itic) submission estimates the sector would need €143 million annually over the plan's lifetime (2007-2013) to remain competitive.

"Government has done well from tourism, and has the potential to do even better," chairwoman Catherine Reilly said. However, more investment in the sector was needed to "make its optimal contribution" to economic and social development.

The proposed €1 billion investment includes €325 million for international marketing promoting Ireland as a destination, €210 million towards the development of tourist spots and other products, €175 million for human resource development and training, and €90 million to build a regional conference centre in the Shannon/Limerick area.

More than six million overseas visitors came to Ireland in 2005, an increase of almost 14 per cent from 1999.

The confederation contends that the economic impact of tourism is clear. Between 2000 and 2004, €1 out of €20 spent on consumer goods or services came from tourists. In 2004, tourists spent almost €1 billion on bed and board and €1.275 billion on other food and drink.