Irish tourism could face losses of up to £500 million from a prolonged foot and mouth crisis in the UK, according to Bord Fáilte chief executive Mr John Dully.
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Speaking in Dublin today Mr Dully said if the crisis continued into May it could result in the permanent closure of accommodation and other tourism facilities such as angling, hill walking and other sporting facilities in rural settings.
"Small to medium businesses are most vulnerable," he said. "We are now entering the key decision making period for potential holiday makers. If they are faced with possible restrictions on what they can do in Ireland, they may decide to give Ireland a miss this year," he added.
The industry was not sure if it could make up this loss next year, he added.
Bord Fáilte's latest estimates suggest that up to one million overseas visitors could be lost by the end of August representing a revenue loss of £500 million.
Bord Fáilte's has set up a high level action group to establish the impact the foot and mouth crisis will have on the industry. It is currently planning a post foot and mouth crisis marketing campaign to be introduced as soon as circumstances permit.